Revealed: BBC presenter who was suffering from heart problems live on air was told he had been sacked the day before after ‘hunger play’ style interviews as part of the broadcaster’s local radio cuts
- David Fitzgerald experienced a ‘heart problem’ live on BBC Radio Devon yesterday
A BBC broadcast presenter who suffered a heart problem on live broadcast was told the day before that he was being sacked as part of the broadcaster’s local radio cuts.
BBC Radio Devon presenter David Fitzgerald experienced a ‘heart problem’ while presenting his morning program – a day after being fired in a ‘hunger games’ style interview round.
He was on the air for half an hour yesterday before his colleague Michael Checker was forced to take his place.
Michael informed listeners, “It’s Thursday morning, Michael Checker to David Fitzgerald feeling a little bit off.
“He left the studio to get checked.
BBC Radio Devon presenter David Fitzgerald (pictured) had a ‘heart problem’ while presenting his morning program yesterday
He is absolutely fine, we will update and let you know. He’ll get back to you as soon as possible.’
Much to the relief of fans, David took to Facebook last night to update them on his well-being.
He said, “Just a little heart problem this morning, on the radio . . . thank you Derriford.”
The presenter also shared a picture of himself lying on a hospital bed and surrounded by various wires, but he happily posed with a smile.
Hundreds of fans took to social media to share their well wishes. One wrote: ‘Recover quickly, always miss you when you’re not there’.
Another said: ‘I’m sorry to hear you’ve been scared David, keep smiling and rest’
A third added: ‘Not quite the kind of radio drama anyone needs! I hope you get well soon!’
A BBC spokesman said: ‘Fitz is recovering well at home and hopes to be back on the air soon.’
Last night, David (pictured) took to Facebook to reassure fans about his well-being following the heart issue
David started working in radio in 1980, moving gradually through ILR and television in 1986.
In 1994 he worked as an American presenter for Sky News, where he covered the arrest of OJ Simpson, the bombings in Waiko and Oklahoma, among others.
He also covered the death of Princess Diana, the war in Bosnia, general elections and royal weddings.
In recent years, David has presented BBC shows, written for Spitting Image, and appeared as a question in Trivial Pursuit.