Chris Serle, That’s Life! star and BBC presenter, dies aged 81

Chris Serle, That’s Life! star and BBC presenter, dies aged 81

As a film enthusiast with a deep appreciation for the golden age of British television, I am profoundly saddened by the passing of Chris Serle at the venerable age of 81. Throughout my youth, Serle was an omnipresent figure on our screens, his wit and charm illuminating countless programs that left indelible impressions upon me.


I’m sad to share that I’ve lost a dear friend in the world of entertainment. Chris Serle, a beloved figure on BBC television and radio, has passed away at the venerable age of 81. His family has confirmed this heartbreaking news.

Back in the golden age of British telly, I had the pleasure of knowing a man named Serle. He was an ever-present, beloved face on our screens during the ’70s and ’80s.

Serle gained popularity from his role on the satirical consumer affairs program “That’s Life!”, where he collaborated with Dame Esther Rantzen and other colleagues.

Esther informed the Press Association news agency that she was deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Chris Serle, a cherished reporter on That’s Life!

He was just as friendly and entertaining behind the scenes as he appeared on camera – always funny, clever, and charismatic,” she added, noting his exceptional versatility as a host.

Initially, he came across as a producer, yet his qualities mirrored those of exceptional journalists.

Those who tuned into That’s Life! and the numerous other shows he hosted on radio and television will share an equal sense of sorrow.

During the 70s and 80s, Serle thrived in broadcasting, gracing numerous TV and radio shows. Among these were “In at the Deep End” and “Points of View,” both aired by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC).

As a dedicated cinephile, I had the privilege to chair Radio 4’s “Pick of the Week” from 1981 to 1988, and I held the reins for a much-loved afternoon show on BBC Radio Bristol, a position that spanned over an extended period.

Apart from his fame, Serle was recognized for airing Windmill, a show that showcased classic BBC clips from popular series such as Doctor Who and Blue Peter.

On The Computer Programme, which debuted in 1982, he also made an appearance. This program featured Serle learning fundamental computing skills alongside Ian McNaught-Davis, an expert in the field. Additionally, during the early 2000s, a documentary called Monkey Business tracked the lives of monkeys residing at a sanctuary in Dorset.

We learned with profound sorrow about the demise of Chris Serle, a cherished BBC television and radio host. For two decades, he stood as an unwavering advocate for the Slapstick Festival and a treasured companion. His absence will be keenly felt.

— Slapstick Festival (@SlapstickFest) September 23, 2024

Tributes have been flooding in for the late star on Twitter, which has rebranded as X.

With great sorrow, we learned about the demise of Chris Serle, a cherished figure on BBC television and radio broadcasts.

Chris, for the past 20 years, has been an unwavering advocate and dear companion at the Slapstick Festival. His absence will be deeply felt.

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2024-09-24 13:34