BBC Breakfast host announces heartbreaking death as tributes flood in

BBC Breakfast paid tribute to the legendary rugby league commentator Ray French during Sunday's show. Presenters Rachel Burden and Roger Johnson handed over to Hugh Ferris to detail the latest sports news as he told viewers the tragic news.

He said: "Ray French, the voice of Rugby League on the BBC for almost four decades, has died at the age of 85."

Viewers were then shown an old rugby match with Ray's voice speaking over the top, showing his passion for the sport.

Hugh added: "After a career that saw him represent England and Great Britain in both rugby codes, he turned his hand to commentary, becoming one of the most distinctive voices in sport.

"He was made an MBE for services to rugby league in 2011 before his eventual retirement in 2019. There is rarely a more distinct voice for any sport, Roger and Rachel."

Passing back over to the two BBC Breakfast presenters, Roger took a moment to share some kind words.

He shared: "Absolutely, our thoughts are with his family and loved ones."

Over the years, Ray had been battling dementia, although it's not known when the sporting voice was diagnosed.

The Rugby Football League, the English game's governing body, paid tribute to the star on X, writing: "Ray made an immense and unique contribution to the sport of Rugby League - and is best remembered as the BBC's Rugby League commentator from 1981 to 2008."

It wasn't long before tributes started pouring in, with one person commenting: "Very sad, RIP and condolences to his family. Absolutely fantastic commentator on Rugby League."

Another shared: "RIP Ray. You were a big part of my enjoyment of watching RL as a kid."

Someone else wrote: "Legend of the sport and a thoroughly down-to-earth nice bloke. Loved listening to his commentaries on @BBCSport and @bbcmerseyside, the way he called the game was as if he took you with him to the match. R.I.P. Ray, and thanks for the memories."

BBC Breakfast is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.