GMB pay tribute to Gladiators icon John Anderson after passing
Good Morning Britain today came to a sudden halt as entertainment correspondent Scarlette Douglas broke in to share some tragic breaking news.
The ITV show honoured the memory of Gladiators announcer John Anderson with a touching tribute, as the show took a moment to express their condolences following the 92 year old's death earlier this week.
The nation was informed of the sad news late on Sunday night (July 28), and it has deeply affected many today (July 29). Scarlette Douglas interrupted the programme with a sombre "unfortunate" announcement.
The official Gladiators Instagram account shared a heartfelt message: "We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our beloved referee, John Anderson, at the age of 92. Our hearts go out to his friends and family. John will forever be remembered as the iconic voice that brought us 'Gladiators Ready! Contenders Ready!' Rest in peace John."
After a light-hearted segment, Scarlette apologised for changing the mood before breaking the news of John's passing to viewers.
She said: "Unfortunately there is now the passing of Gladiators legend John Anderson, famed for this iconic catchphrase," reports the Mirror.
Following this, a video clip was shown of John's famous "Gladiators ready!" call, after which she added: "Aww. The Gladiators Instagram account shared a statement."
Scarlette then read the tribute aloud and told viewers: "John appeared on the series from its 1992 debut until 2000, and made a brief comeback in 2008. So rest in peace John from all of us here at Good Morning Britain."
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Fans have been paying heartfelt tributes to the late John Anderson, with one fan expressing on social media: "John was THE voice of original UK Glads... he was a brilliant ref in my eyes being firm and fair. His character as a person I also enjoyed working with and inspiring. RIP love to Dorothy, his dogs (if still here), the rest of his family and the Glad fans who will also feel this."
Ex-football referee Mark Clattenburg shared his respects, saying: "One of the most iconic voices and will always be remembered. I had the most difficult task to follow him in the new series of Gladiators and watching him keep the Gladiators within the rules will always be with me!! Rest in peace LEGEND!!"
Jane Omorogbe, known from Gladiators as Rio, also paid homage: "This man literally changed my life in one simple phone call. Forever grateful."
She added: "Thank you for believing in something I couldn't see. Absolute legend. My love and thoughts are with your family."
