All about Jill Dando's former fiancé Alan Farthing and his royal connection
The BBC documentary The Murder of Jill Dandotells the full story of the famous broadcaster's shocking death, which rocked the nation 25 years ago. Jill was shot dead on her doorstep in 1999, sparking one of Britain's most high-profile murder investigations.
One of the nation's most celebrated presenters, Jill was best known for presenting programmes on the BBC, including Crimewatch, Breakfast Time and the Six O'Clock News, and received the BBC Personality of the Year award in 1997.
At the time of her death, Jill was engaged to gynaecologist Alan Farthing, whom she met through a mutual friend. Keep reading to find out more about Alan and his connection to the royal family.
Who is Jill Dando's former fiancé Alan Farthing?
Alan Farthing is an obstetrician and gynaecologist from Winchester, Hampshire.
According to his profile on the King Edward VII Hospital website, Alan specialises in complex surgery and is one of the UK's most experienced keyhole surgeons. He is also one of the pioneers in using keyhole surgery to treat cancer patients.
He qualified from St Georges Hospital Medical School in 1986 before going on to work in hospitals in London and Australia.
Now, he is the Head of Department at the Gynaecological Cancer at Imperial College Hospitals NHS Trust and has a private practice on Harley Street. He also works as a consultant at St Mary's Hospital, which is where the Princess of Wales birthed all three of her children.
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What is Alan Farthing's connection to the royal family?
In 2008, Alan was appointed to assist and succeed the late Queen's surgeon-gynaecologist Sir Marcus Setchell, who was retiring from the NHS.
Alan was part of the highly experienced medical team that oversaw Princess Kate's delivery of her three children: Prince George in 2013, Princess Charlotte in 2015 and Prince Louis in 2018.
In June, he was appointed Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (CVO) in the 2023 Birthday Honours for services to the Royal Household.
What was Alan Farthing's relationship with Jill Dando?
After separating from his wife, Alan met Jill through a mutual friend in 1997. The couple became engaged in January 1999, with their wedding set to take place on 25 September.
In an interview with the BBC and the Evening Standard after Jill's death, Alan said he was "devastated". "I cannot believe what has happened, I cannot understand what has happened, I do not think for one moment what could go through somebody's mind when they do such a thing to such a beautiful, caring and well-meaning person."
Did Alan Farthing marry after Jill Dando's death?
Almost nine years after Jill's death, Alan married Dr Janet Stowell in a civil ceremony in 2008. The couple went on to welcome a baby boy in 2010.
