GMB Legend Leaves Impressive Fortune After Battling ‘Frustrating’ Disease
John Stapleton, the veteran broadcaster who worked across BBC and ITV, has died aged 79. He passed away in hospital in September 2025 after a prolonged illness.
Estate and inheritance
Probate records show his estate had a gross value of £5,536,228. After debts and expenses, the estate’s net value stood at £4,544,801.
Stapleton had signed a will in 2017. The document was drawn up before the death of his wife, Lynn Faulds Wood, who died in 2020 aged 72, following a stroke.
Because his wife predeceased him, the estate will now pass to his son, Nick. Nick and his wife Lisa were reported to have been at his bedside in his final days.
Career highlights
Stapleton enjoyed almost five decades on television. He presented BBC’s Watchdog and worked on GMTV and ITV’s Good Morning Britain.
He was also among the first presenters on Sky News. His reporting included coverage of the Kosovo war and four US presidential elections.
- BBC’s Watchdog
- GMTV
- ITV’s Good Morning Britain
- Original presenter on Sky News
Illness and public response
He publicly disclosed a Parkinson’s diagnosis in October 2024 while appearing on Morning Live with his son. He described the condition as a frustrating disease that affected his speech.
Stapleton spoke about adapting to the changes. He said he intended to stay pragmatic and avoid dwelling on negatives.
Cause of death
His agent, Jackie Gill, confirmed Parkinson’s disease was complicated by pneumonia. The statement said he died peacefully in hospital.
Filmogaz.com will continue to follow developments and report on any additional probate or family details as they emerge.
