A Place In The Sun's Jonnie Irwin explained wish he had for three children as presenter dies aged 50

A Place in the Sun star Jonnie Irwin left a heartbreaking wish for his three children before he died.

The TV star passed away today (2 February) at the age of 50 following a devastating cancer diagnosis back in 2020, but in a previous interview from a few months ago, he opened up on leaving behind his family including wife Jessica and their three sons: Rex, three, and twins Rafa and Corma, two.

A statement was posted on his Instagram account this evening confirming the tragic news. It said: "In Loving Memory... It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Jonnie’s passing.

"A truly remarkable soul, he fought bravely against cancer with unwavering strength and courage. Jonnie touched the lives of so many with his kindness, warmth, and infectious spirit.

"At this time, we kindly ask for the privacy of Jonnie’s family as they navigate through this profound loss. Their grief is immeasurable, and your thoughts, prayers, and support are deeply appreciated.

"As we remember the beautiful moments shared with Jonnie, let us celebrate a life well-lived and a legacy that will forever be etched in our hearts. Jonnie may be gone from our sight, but his love, laughter, and memories will live on.

Rest in peace, dear Jonnie. You will be dearly missed, but never forgotten."

Just a few months ago, Jonnie spoke to Hello! Magazine and revealed the wish he has for his three children.

He explained: "I had a tough upbringing and I’ve managed to do a lot in my life, despite that, but I don’t want them to struggle.

"I want them to have the confidence of a public school boy, but also be streetwise lads. They’re happy kids, they laugh, and are a lot of fun to be around."

He also explained in the interview why he and his wife Jessica, 40, decided to keep his cancer diagnosis a secret from their children.

"I keep being asked, ‘Are you going to tell them?’ But tell them what? It would be horrible news that they’d have to get their heads around,” he explained.

"And it would confuse the hell out of Rex – he’s got a shocking enough day coming. Let’s bury our heads in the sand for as long as possible."

The news of Jonnie's passing has been met with many messages of condolences from fans, TV colleagues and loved ones, as one person commented: "So so sad my heart just stopped seeing this. Incredible man."

Another shared: "Such sad news and so unfair. Thinking of his family."

And a third wrote: "Sending so much love, such an amazing warrior RIEP Jonnie xXx."