The Daily Star Ireland
Renowned broadcaster and journalist Henry Kelly, celebrated for hosting television programs such as “Going for Gold” and “Game for a Laugh,” has passed away at the age of 78. According to a statement from his family, Kelly “died peacefully” on Tuesday after a period of ill health. He is survived by his partner, Karolyn Shindler; their son, Alexander; his daughter, Siobhán; and her mother, Marjorie.
Born in Athlone, County Westmeath, Ireland, in April 1946, Kelly spent his early years in Dublin. He pursued English studies at University College Dublin, during which he began his journalism career by contributing theatre reviews to The Irish Times. His tenure at the newspaper led to his promotion as Northern Editor in 1970, positioning him in Belfast during the early years of the Troubles. In 1972, he authored “How Stormont Fell,” a book analyzing the political climate of the time.
In 1976, Kelly transitioned to broadcasting, joining BBC Radio 4’s “The World Tonight” as a reporter and presenter. His career took a significant turn in 1981 when he co-presented ITV’s entertainment show “Game for a Laugh,” which garnered substantial viewership and elevated his public profile. From 1987 to 1996, he hosted the BBC One quiz show “Going for Gold,” featuring contestants from across Europe.
Beyond television, Kelly was a founding presenter of Classic FM, the UK’s classical music radio station, where he hosted the breakfast program from 1992 until 2003. His contributions to radio were recognized in 1994 when he was honored as National Broadcaster of the Year at the Sony Radio Awards. He continued his radio career with stints at LBC and BBC Radio Berkshire, where he worked until 2015.
