Judith Chalmers, the beloved ITV travel presenter best known for Wish You Were Here…?, has passed away peacefully at home aged 90 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
Chalmers, who became a household name presenting the iconic travel series from 1974 until 2003, was surrounded by her family in her final days. Her husband, former sports commentator Neil Durden-Smith, their two children, and six grandchildren were at her side.
“We will miss her greatly but she leaves behind a giant suitcase of the happiest of memories,” the family said in a statement.
Born in Cheshire to an architect and medical secretary, Judith began working with the BBC at just 13 years old on Children’s Hour, eventually presenting radio programmes including Family Favourites and Woman’s Hour. She also hosted BBC’s Come Dancing from 1961 to 1965 before moving to ITV.
Throughout her 60-year broadcasting career, Judith became an icon of British television, known for her charm, professionalism, and signature smile. In 1994, she was awarded an OBE in recognition of her services to broadcasting.
Beyond travel shows, she hosted ITV’s daytime magazine show Good Afternoon and remained a familiar face on British radio and TV. In 2022, Heathrow Airport appointed her as their ‘Chief Smile Officer’, a testament to her enduring warmth and public appeal.
Tributes from fans have poured in, celebrating Judith as an “absolute icon” and “lovely lady,” highlighting the impact she had on generations of viewers.
Judith leaves behind a legacy of adventure, joy, and a lifetime of memories cherished by her family and fans alike.
