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Judith Chalmers, Host of Wish You Were Here, Dies at 90

Published 22 May 2026

Judith Chalmers, the beloved British television presenter best known for hosting the iconic travel programme "Wish You Were Here...?", has died at the age of 90. Her family confirmed she passed away peacefully at home on the evening of May 21, surrounded by loved ones, after living with Alzheimer's disease in her later years.

The family stated her health had been deteriorating for some time and that she had become seriously ill in recent weeks, allowing relatives to gather at her bedside. In a heartfelt statement, they reflected on her extraordinary life and six-decade broadcasting career, saying she leaves behind "a giant suitcase of the happiest of memories."

Born in Gatley, Cheshire, Chalmers began her career with the BBC at just 13 years old. She became a well-known voice on BBC Radio throughout the 1960s, presenting programmes such as "Family Favourites" and "Woman's Hour." She also hosted the BBC's "Come Dancing" from 1961 to 1965. Transitioning to television, she presented ITV's daytime magazine show "Good Afternoon."

Her defining role came in 1974 when she began presenting ITV's "Wish You Were Here...?," a half-hour travel programme that made her one of Britain's most...

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