WARNING, DISTRESSING CONTENT: A BBC legend of childrens TV, who brought shows such as Bagpuss to the silver screen, has been found dead in his shed soon after splitting from his partner
A beloved BBC icon, Daniel Postgate, who brought childhood favourites like Bagpuss and The Clangers to the silver screen, was tragically found dead in his shed at the ge of 61, following a heartbreaking split from his partner of 35 years.
Daniel, son of Bagpuss co-creator Oliver Postgate, played a pivotal role in ushering in a new era of children’s television on the BBC. Tragically, Daniel was discovered lifeless in a shed at his Whitstable home in June this year, having taken his own life. With a history of battling depression and anxiety, Daniel had also been fighting blood cancer.
He underwent chemotherapy for the condition in 2019, but a letter he received the day before his death heightened his health anxieties.
The NHS letter detailed his diagnosis of myelodysplastic syndrome, a type of blood cancer, and aplastic anaemia, a condition where the body fails to produce enough blood cells. It cautioned that despite successful treatment, the cancer could recur.
In a report prepared for the coroner, his family revealed that he feared his illness was incurable, leaving them a note that read: “I hope you all have wonderful lives, and remember to love each other”, as reported by the Express.
Daniel, a father of two, had amicably separated from his long-term partner prior to his untimely passing.
The inquest, held this week at Oakwood House, Maidstone, confirmed that the cause of death was consistent with suicide.
Coroner Sarah Clarke commented: “I always say to family, I don’t think it’s a question [why a person has died by suicide] that can ever be answered.
“He tells me he’s undertaking a deliberate act. He doesn’t want to endure the ongoing treatment. I would be wrong to find another reason [for Daniel’s death].”
His brother, Simon Postgate, shared their final phone conversation with the court, saying: “I think he had something in mind, but I don’t know for certain.
“He was able to communicate and was quite chatty and fairly relaxed, but he had underlying depression for about 40 years. It was sometimes difficult to tell what frame of mind he was in.”
For emotional support, you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website.
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