Although fans have expressed worry that the GMB host is returning to work too soon, a source tells new that it is what Kate wants and needs to do
PHOTOS: PA, GETTY, REX/SHUTTERSTOCK Mitya Underwood
Kate Garraway’s emotional return to Good Morning Britainlast Thursday, less than a week after the funeral for her late husband Derek Draper, has sparked concern with some of her loyal fans.
Derek, 56, died on 3 January following a four-year battle against the effects of Covid, marking a sad end to the family’s ordeal.
Just days after the moving funeral service, a tearful Kate, 56, spoke to her colleagues Richard Madeley and Susanna Reid from home. She revealed to the GMB audience that she was ready to return to work, saying that’s what “Derek would want me to do”.
While she was flooded with support from viewers, a source told new that her announcement also raised some concern that she might be taking on too much, too soon.
And when she did officially rejoin her colleagues in the studio later in the week, Kate shared that it was “lovely” to be back but she felt “a bit wobbly”.
The source said, “People are worried about her doing too much but Kate is strong and she knows what she’s doing. She’s been living with this for a long time. Work is where she wants and needs to be.”
Former political lobbyist Derek suffered a cardiac arrest in December. He spent Christmas in hospital with Kate and their children, Darcey, 17, and 14-year-old Billy keeping vigil by his side, before eventually passing away in early January.
Devastated Kate announced his death on her social media a few days later, writing, “Sending so much love and thanks to all of you who have so generously given our family so much support. Rest gently and peacefully now Derek, my love, I was so lucky to have you in my life.”
The family chose to hold his funeral at the Church of St Mary the Virgin in Primrose Hill – the same church where Derek and Kate got married almost 20 years ago.
His teenage daughter bravely carried his coffin into the packed church service, where Sir Elton John performed the song Skyline Pigeon. Kate was supported on the day by friends and colleagues including Susanna, Ben Shephard, Alex Beresford and radio presenter Roman Kemp.
Our source said that while Derek’s death was devastating for the family, especially as he’d appeared in good spirits before his cardiac arrest, they finally have a sense of peace and don’t have to be afraid of “what’s coming nex
