Adam Alagiah: Getting to Know George Alagiah’s Son
Following the sad news of BBC newsreader George Alagiah’s passing, many have been curious about his family, including his wife and two sons. Let’s take a closer look at his children, particularly his oldest son, Adam Alagiah.
Adam Alagiah was born in 1988 to George Alagiah and his wife, Frances Robathan. Four years later, in 1992, the couple welcomed another son, Matthew. George was a proud and doting father and often spoke fondly of his sons in interviews.
In a 2010 interview with The Guardian, George expressed his admiration for Adam and Matthew, saying, “Adam and Matthew, who are 23 and 19, are amazing guys. If I were their age, I’d like to be their friend. The elder one is doing international development and I think Matthew could be a writer.”
As a father, George was looking forward to the transition period when his children would become more independent. He cherished the idea of his sons taking the lead and him stepping back, saying, “We’re in that transition period that other parents worry about: the loss of control and so on. But I cannot wait until they’re the ones driving the car and I’m the one snoozing in the back.”
For George, being a father was a source of immense pride and fulfillment. He shared a Tamil proverb that resonated with him, explaining, “There is a Tamil proverb where a father waits for the day when he walks into a room and people say: this is So-and-So’s father. The minute your children are the reference point, you know you’ve done your job.”
On July 24, 2023, George Alagiah passed away after a courageous battle with bowel cancer. He was first diagnosed with the disease in April 2014. His agent confirmed the sad news, stating, “George fought until the bitter end, but sadly that battle ended earlier today. George was deeply loved by everybody who knew him, whether it was a friend, a colleague, or a member of the public. He simply was a wonderful human being. My thoughts are with Fran, the boys, and his wider family.”
Following his passing, tributes poured in for the beloved newsreader. Colleagues and friends, including Naga Munchetty, Charlene White, George Simpson, and Mark Austin, paid heartfelt tributes, highlighting George Alagiah’s exceptional qualities as a person and as a journalist.
As we mourn the loss of George Alagiah, we can take comfort in knowing that he leaves behind a loving family and a legacy of journalistic excellence that will be remembered and cherished by many. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his wife, Frances, and their two sons, Adam and Matthew, during this difficult time.