BAFTA-winning journalist and iconic ITV presenter Roger Cook has died at the age of 83, bringing an end to a remarkable career that helped redefine investigative television across more than five decades.
His family confirmed that the veteran broadcaster passed away peacefully in hospital on Saturday after a short illness, with his wife Frances and daughter Belinda by his side.
âIt is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Roger Cook,â the family said in a heartfelt statement. âHe was, first and foremost, a beloved husband and father. He will be deeply missed.â
Cook, best known for fronting the hard-hitting ITV series The Cook Report, became one of Britainâs most fearless and recognisable investigative journalists, uncovering corruption, crime, and injustice in stories that often made national headlines.
A fearless voice in British journalism
Born in New Zealand in 1943 and raised in Australia, Cook began his career at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation before moving to London in 1968. He quickly established himself within BBC current affairs programmes including The World at One, PM, Nationwide, and Newsnight.
But it was his groundbreaking approach to investigative journalism that truly defined his legacy.
Through radio and television projects such as Checkpoint and later The Cook Report on ITV, Cook built a reputation for fearless reporting that pushed boundaries and exposed criminal networks across the world.
âGroundbreakingâ work that changed lives
Running for 16 series over 12 years, The Cook Report attracted audiences of more than 12 million viewers at its peak and became one of ITVâs most influential current affairs programmes.
From people smuggling and drug trafficking to the tainted blood scandal and international crime syndicates, Cookâs investigations often led to police action, prosecutions, and changes in the law.
His work also touched on some of the most disturbing global issues of the time, including child exploitation networks, illegal arms trading, war crimes, and environmental crimes.
ITV bosses paid tribute, describing him as a âtrusted and respected figureâ whose âfearless contribution to journalism helped bring lasting change.â
Tributes from across broadcasting
Former colleagues and broadcasting figures have joined his family in mourning, praising his integrity, courage, and commitment to uncovering the truth.
ITV said in a statement: âRoger Cookâs groundbreaking approach to investigative journalism made him one of broadcastingâs most trusted figures. His legacy will long be remembered.â
A lasting legacy
Cookâs influence on investigative television continues to be felt today, with many crediting him as one of the pioneers who shaped modern documentary journalism.
In his later years, he reflected on a career that took him from radio studios to some of the worldâs most dangerous investigations â always driven by a belief in accountability and justice.
He is survived by his wife Frances and daughter Belinda.
A giant of investigative journalism has fallen silent â but his work, and the impact it made, will not be forgotten.
