💔 A remarkable chapter comes to a close as legendary journalist Roger Cook passes away at 83. After overcoming immense challenges throughout his life, he spent his final moments surrounded by those he loved most. His fearless pursuit of the truth inspired generations—but the touching details of his last days have left many deeply moved. 🕊️

BAFTA-winning journalist Roger Cook has died at the age of 83 following a short illness, bringing an end to a remarkable career that transformed investigative broadcasting in Britain.

The veteran presenter, who became a household name through ITV’s groundbreaking series The Cook Report, passed away peacefully in hospital on Saturday with his wife, Frances, and daughter, Belinda, by his side. His death comes after years of health battles, having previously overcome cancer twice.

Born in New Zealand in 1943 and raised in Australia, Cook built a reputation as one of television’s most fearless journalists. His investigations exposed criminals, fraudsters and corruption, earning him the trust of millions of viewers and making The Cook Report one of the most influential current affairs programmes of its era.

In a statement released by his family, they said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Roger Cook, who died peacefully on Saturday after a short illness.

“Alongside a distinguished and award-winning career in journalism, Roger was first and foremost a beloved husband and father.

“He will be deeply missed by all of us, and we ask for privacy as we navigate this difficult loss.”

ITV also paid tribute to the broadcasting icon, saying: “In a career spanning an incredible five decades, Roger Cook’s groundbreaking approach to investigative journalism made him one of broadcasting’s most trusted and respected figures.

“On his eponymous current affairs programme, The Cook Report, Roger worked tirelessly to expose criminal wrongdoing and injustice, helping to drive important and lasting changes in the law.

“His fearless contribution to journalism will long be remembered, and we send our deepest sympathies and condolences to his wife, family and friends at this difficult time.”

Cook’s career began at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation before he moved to London in 1968 and joined BBC Radio’s The World At One. He later worked on PM, Nationwide and Newsnight before establishing himself as a leading investigative reporter.

His Radio 4 programme Checkpoint eventually evolved into The Cook Report on ITV, which ran from 1987 until 1999. At its height, the series attracted more than 12 million viewers and earned numerous accolades, including a BAFTA in 1997.

Following news of his death, tributes flooded in from viewers and colleagues alike.

One admirer wrote: “RIP Roger Cook without whose Cook Report many things would have been unexposed.”

Another said: “Very sad to hear of the death of pioneering investigative reporter Roger Cook. ‘The Cook Report’ was genuinely groundbreaking, must-see TV. He was a forensic journalist and a lovely man.”

A third tribute read: “I used to watch The Cook Report growing up as a little girl. I loved his courage, bravery and what a fantastic reporter he was. Thank you Roger and God bless you.”

Roger Cook leaves behind a legacy that shaped modern investigative journalism and inspired generations of reporters.