Advertisement

Jane McDonald's partner Eddie Rothe dies aged 67 after cancer battle

Watch: Jane McDonald's fiance Eddie Rothe has tragically died following cancer battle

Jane McDonald has announced her partner Eddie Rothe has died at the age of 67.

The news was posted to the singer and TV presenter's Twitter account on Wednesday. The message revealed that Rothe, a drummer once part of bands The Searchers and Liquid Gold, passed away on 26 March after being diagnosed with lung cancer.

It was also disclosed that he had been laid to rest earlier that day.

Jane McDonald's partner Eddie Rothe has died at the age of 67.  (Photo by Dave J Hogan/Dave J Hogan/Getty Images)
Jane McDonald's partner Eddie Rothe has died at the age of 67. (Photo by Dave J Hogan/Dave J Hogan/Getty Images)

Read more: Eamonn Holmes reveals he is to be a grandad

The message on the 58-year-old's social media read: "It is with immense sadness that we share the news that Jane’s beloved long term partner, Ed, passed away on Friday 26th March. He had been battling lung cancer for the last few months.

Jane McDonald shared the news to social media. (Twitter/Jane McDonald)
Jane McDonald shared the news to social media. (Twitter/Jane McDonald)

"We would like to thank everyone for all their help and support during this very difficult time, especially the NHS staff and the wonderful team at The Wakefield Hospice.

"The funeral took place earlier today and we would please ask for your kindness in observing Jane’s privacy for her and Ed’s family at this sad time."

Rothe and McDonald first became acquainted back in the 1980s where they dated for a short time, but reconnected back in 2008 after a chance meeting on the set of This Morning and got engaged later that year.

Jane McDonald and Eddie Rothe had reconnected decades after enjoying a romance in their youth. (PA)
Jane McDonald and Eddie Rothe had reconnected decades after enjoying a romance in their youth. (PA)

Loose Women sent their condolences to the former panellist on the loss of her partner.

Read more: GMB viewers spot 'big cat' in bushes

A message from the show's official Twitter account read: "Our deepest condolences go to our friend and former Loose Woman Jane McDonald whose life partner Ed Rothe has passed away. Ed was a part of our Loose Women family for many years and appeared on our show on numerous occasions.

"We’re sending love to Jane and her and Ed’s family."

With additional reporting by PA.

Watch: Jane McDonald’s Cracking Career