The BBC has announced a short-term programming change to tonight's The One Show following the death of Hairy Bikers presenter Dave Myers.
His heartbroken co-star Si King announced the news today as family, friends and colleagues paid emotional respects to the popular TV star, who revealed he would be undergoing treatment for cancer in May 2022.
Si shared that his co-star died on Wednesday in the presence of his family and friends.
Following the Hairy Bikers star's death, the BBC announced it would no longer air the Lenny Henry Exclusive Vote for the comedian's funniest Red Nose Day moments on The One Show tonight.
Instead, the special segment will appear on the Friday, March 1 episode of the show, which airs at 7 p.m.
The BBC has announced a short-term programming change to tonight's The One Show following the death of Hairy Bikers presenter Dave Myers
Following The Hairy Bikers star's death, the BBC announced it will no longer air the Lenny Henry Exclusive Vote for the comedian's funniest Red Nose Day moments on The One Show tonight
The shift opens up space for a possible tribute to Dave after his death.
The segment, originally planned as a tribute to Sir Lenny, will celebrate his life and work with an exclusive vote on his funniest Comic Relief moments.
Paying tribute to fellow Hairy Biker Dave, Si said in a statement: “Hello everyone, I'm afraid I have some sad news to share.”
“Most of you will know that Dave has been battling cancer for a few years.
“Last evening, February 28, 2024, he passed away peacefully at home in the presence of Lili, Dave’s wife, his family, his close friend David and me.
“Everyone who knew Dave is devastated by his death. His beloved wife made him happy, as did their children Iza and Sergiu, whom Dave loved as his own.
“Personally, I’m not sure I can put into words how I’m feeling right now.”
“My best friend is on a journey that I can't follow at the moment.” I will miss him every day and the bond and friendship we have shared for half a life.
“I wish you God’s speed, brother; You are and remain a lighthouse in this world. See you on the other side. Love you.'
Hairy bikers Dave and Si (pictured in 2019) met through their work in the film industry – Dave as a make-up artist and Si as a location director
2024 also marks the final year that Sir Lenny will host Comic Relief, having co-founded the charity with Richard Curtis in 1985 and having done so almost every year.
Hairy bikers Dave and Si met through their work in the film industry – Dave as a makeup artist and Si as a location director – and immediately formed a strong friendship over their love of food and motorcycles.
Over the course of their careers, the duo have built a reputation as likeable faces of the TV cooking world, completing 31 separate projects since their first debut on the BBC in 2006.
Dave leaves behind his heartbroken wife Liliana Orzac and their two children Izabelle and Sergiu, who supported him throughout his illness.
Dave and Liliana kept their private life extremely private after marrying in the star's hometown of Barrow, Cumbria, in 2011.
Speaking about the support he received from his wife in his battle with cancer, Dave said in December: “A lot of the credit also goes to my wife, she's been through it all from the start.”
“It’s absolutely vital and I feel really sad for the people who have to go through this alone.”
Dave leaves behind his heartbroken wife Liliana Orzac and their two children Izabelle and Sergiu, who supported him throughout his illness