Newspaper columnist and broadcaster Rod Liddle has died aged 66 after a short illness. Liddle died at The James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough on Sunday evening.
The former editor of BBC Radio 4’s flagship Today programme was a columnist on the Sunday Times and the Sun and had a weekly column in the Spectator, as well as a show on Times Radio.
He was the first journalist to have an online blog censured by the Press Complaints Commission (PCC), the forerunner to IPSO. His columns were known for taking controversial positions on issues such as immigration, multiculturalism, crime, Brexit, and political correctness.
He frequently attracted criticism and complaints over remarks that opponents describe as inflammatory or offensive, while supporters argue he challenges political orthodoxies and promotes free speech. In 2010 a complaint was upheld by the PCC after the writer and columnist claimed on the Spectator website that the “overwhelming majority” of violent crime in London was carried out by young Afro-Caribbean men.
His children, Wilder, Tyler and Emmy, said: “We’re all very saddened and shocked at the sudden passing of our wonderful father. He raised us much as you might imagine, to be inquisitive, brave and always humorous.
“Even in hospital in the last few weeks, he consistently held the room and never let the awful situation show. He has left a legacy that we are all incredibly proud of, he will always be our guide on how to live an extraordinary life.”
Ben Taylor, editor of The Sunday Times, said: “Rod Liddle had a wonderful way with words and used his unique talent to speak for the readers, highlighting the cant and absurdity that bedevils modern life. He was also supremely entertaining and for years his column was the first that many turned to every Sunday.”
