celeb news
Exclusive
Concerns raised after star is absent from work
Following Derek Draper’s tragic death earlier this year, his devoted wife Kate Garraway returned to work just six days after his funeral. However, after being forced to miss a number of shows on Good Morning Britain and Smooth Radio recently because of illness, those close to her have urged her to rest up and take a longer break. Kate has previously revealed she was looking forward to getting back to work after taking time off to look after Derek – who died aged 56 after a long and devastating struggle with the after effects of COVID. “We have to pick ourselves up and go on. That’s what Derek did, and would want me to do,” she’s said.
But after losing her voice and being forced to take time away, friends have suggested the exhausted star consider the impact the past years have had on her. A source said, “Kate has sworn that juggling both Good Morning Britain and her radio show has been a lifeline, offering a glimmer of hope and distraction as she continues to deal with the unimaginable grief of losing your partner. However, some of her friends are concerned that she needs to take a break.
In the cutthroat world of TV, you’re advised to never take too long off as there’s always someone in the wings waiting to replace you. Kate is considered a hero in the broadcasting industry, so there’s no way anyone would let her be forgotten if she was to step away for a bit. They’ve reminded her that it will all be waiting for her when she’s ready to come back.”
Kate’s third documentary, titled Derek’s Story, is set to air at the end of March – shining a spotlight on medical staff, unpaid carers and the NHS. Derek passed away in January, following a long battle with COVID-19 complications after contracting the disease in March 2020. His funeral was held last month, in the same Primrose Hill church in London where the former political lobbyist married Kate in 2005.
Former Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair, 70, and musician Sir Elton John, 76, attended the service, celebrating Derek’s life alongside Kate and their two children, Darcey, 18, and Billy, 14.
Since the loss of Derek, the family
