BBC Radio host left mortified after asking terminally ill Dame Esther Rantzen awkward question
BBC Radio host Amol Rajan found himself in an embarrassing situation when he asked Dame Esther Rantzen if she was still “with us” during a live broadcast. The terminally ill broadcaster had previously disclosed her battle with lung cancer since January last year. Despite her health challenges, Rantzen has been an outspoken advocate for assisted dying and has not shied away from discussing her limited time left.
The incident occurred during Rantzen’s appearance on the BBC Radio 4 Today programme on Friday morning. As Rajan welcomed her to the show, technical issues seemed to cause a delay in her response. Rajan’s inquiry, “Is Dame Esther Rantzen with us?” initially met with silence before Rantzen wittily replied, “Yeah I hope so!” Rajan, realising his misstep, chuckled and expressed his mortification by acknowledging, “Oh God.” Rantzen light-heartedly quipped, “I’m doing my best!” to ease the awkward moment.
Apologising for his blunder, Rajan acknowledged the poor choice of words, admitting it was “probably the worst question I’ve ever asked.” He clarified that his query was regarding the technical connection rather than Rantzen’s presence. Listeners commended Rajan for his handling of the situation, with some praising his quick acknowledgment of the mistake. The incident sparked various reactions on social media, with some finding humour in the situation and others commending Rajan’s recovery from the blunder.
Earlier this year, Rantzen shared that a new drug was helping keep her cancer at bay, leading to an improved overall well-being beyond her expectations. Notably known for establishing Childline, a helpline for young individuals, Rantzen has also disclosed her registration with the Swiss assisted dying facility, Dignitas. She has been an advocate for a Parliamentary discussion on the matter, critiquing the existing law as a “cruel mess.”
In response to the news of her cancer’s progression, Rantzen conveyed her gratitude, reflecting on her life at 82 and appreciating the joy, fun, and inspiration she has experienced. The incident serves as a reminder of the delicate nature of live broadcasts and the importance of sensitivity in communication, particularly when addressing sensitive topics such as health and mortality.