Veteran television presenter Judith Chalmers, best known for hosting ITV’s long-running travel programme Wish You Were Here...?, has died at the age of 90.

Her family confirmed the news in a statement, revealing that Chalmers passed away after living with Alzheimer’s disease for several years.

“After living an extraordinary life that involved over 60 years in broadcasting and countless adventures all over the globe, Judy sadly passed away last night, surrounded by the family she loved so much after suffering with Alzheimer’s for some years,” the statement said.

Her family added: “We will miss her greatly but she leaves behind a giant suitcase of the happiest of memories.”

A familiar face of British television for decades

Chalmers became one of the most recognisable personalities on British television through her work on ITV’s flagship travel series Wish You Were Here...?.

She began presenting the primetime programme in 1974 and remained with the show until 2003, making her one of the longest-serving travel presenters in British broadcasting history.

Beyond her work on the travel series, Chalmers also fronted programmes including Come Dancing, ITV’s Good Afternoon, and several BBC radio broadcasts, including Woman's Hour and her own show on BBC Radio 2.

Family says health had declined in recent weeks

According to ITV News, Chalmers’ family said her health had been deteriorating for some time and that she had become seriously ill in recent weeks.

They noted that the situation allowed relatives to spend time together with her during her final days.

The family’s statement reflected on both her broadcasting legacy and her love for travel, which became central to her public image over several decades.

ITV pays tribute to a ‘National Treasure’

An ITV spokesperson paid tribute to Chalmers following news of her death, describing her as one of the most beloved figures in British television.

“As the host of Wish You Were Here...? for four decades, Judith Chalmers became one of the most beloved faces of British broadcasting,” the spokesperson said.

“Her indelible contribution to television made Judith a national treasure and a lasting favourite amongst our audience, and we send our deepest sympathies to her family and friends at this very sad time.”

Honoured career and family life

Chalmers’ contribution to broadcasting was formally recognised in 1994 when she was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE).

She was married to sports presenter Neil Durden-Smith, and the couple had two sons together.

In 2008, their son Mark Durden-Smith presented a revived version of his mother’s iconic programme titled Wish You Were Here…? Now & Then, which revisited destinations featured in the original series.

End of an era in British broadcasting

For generations of viewers, Judith Chalmers became synonymous with travel television and family entertainment, helping bring destinations from around the world into British homes long before international travel became commonplace.

Her death marks the end of a broadcasting career that spanned more than six decades and left a lasting impact on British television history.