Heartbroken Catriona Rowntree leads tributes as Getaway host Jeff Watson dies from brain cancer
Australian producer and Getaway presenter Jeff Watson has died, aged 80.
Watson passed away peacefully last Wednesday at the Greenwich Palliative Care Hospital after being diagnosed with brain cancer in early 2018.
He was surrounded by his wife Judi, children Timothy and Lucy and stepdaughter Cara.
Watson was initially given three months to live but continued an active life with his family and friends up until his death.
Popular Getaway presenter Catriona Rowntree paid tribute to her beloved colleague, telling TV Tonight: ‘This is heartbreaking news. As both a colleague and friend Jeff was a joy to be with. You can imagine how interesting he was after so many world travels, above all though he was just so cheeky and fun loving.’
Australian producer and Getaway presenter Jeff Watson has died, aged 80
‘Jeff had the best bloopers ever! Jeff always spoke of his love for his family, I know their hearts will be hurting and we are sending all our love to them.’
Channel Nine’s Getaway executive producer John Walsh also added: ‘Jeff was really fundamental in the launch of Getaway in 1992.’
‘As one of the original presenters on the show he brought a world of experience to the on-air team and had the rare knack of being incredibly funny one minute and projecting authority and gravitas the next.’
‘Audiences really responded to him and there’s no doubt he played a big role in the show’s early success. He was a real one-of-a kind and will be missed.’
Popular Getaway presenter Catriona Rowntree paid tribute to her beloved colleague after the news broke
Watson was an original presenter of Getaway from 1992 to 1998. He also hosted popular TV series Beyond 2000
Watson was an original presenter of Getaway from 1992 to 1998. He also hosted popular TV series Beyond 2000.
He has also produced several programs for Channel Seven and The History Channel including The Boneyard and The Shape Of Things To Come.
Watson presented ABC radio program Travellers Tales for five years and also took the role of motoring and aviation editor of the Today show.
Getaway presenter Catriona Rowntree (pictured) said: ‘This is heartbreaking news. As both a colleague and friend Jeff was a joy to be with. You can imagine how interesting he was after so many world travels, above all though he was just so cheeky and fun loving’
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