Alan Yentob Obituary – Death: BBC presenter and former executive Alan Yentob Cause of Death

Former BBC executive and presenter Alan Yentob has died at age 78, his family confirmed. Yentob joined the BBC as a trainee in 1968 and held key roles including controller of BBC One and Two, director of television, head of music and arts, and director of drama, entertainment, and children’s programming.

His family announced his passing on May 24. His wife Philippa Walker said, “Alan was curious, funny, creative, and the kindest of men. He leaves behind a trail of love a mile wide.”

Yentob is credited with revitalizing BBC Two, commissioning hit shows like Absolutely Fabulous, The Late Show, and Have I Got News For You. He helped launch children’s channels CBBC and CBeebies and oversaw drama adaptations including Middlemarch and Pride and Prejudice.

He also made the difficult decision to cancel the soap Eldorado in 1993.

Yentob’s influence shaped British television for decades and he is remembered for his creativity, leadership, and kindness.