Justin Lee Collins and Dick and Dom are among the TV stars who have paid tribute to director Stuart McDonald, who has died in a car crash.
Justin Lee Collins
Broadcaster Richard Woolfe took to Twitter to reveal the tragic news, and praised Stuart - who worked on 'The Chase', 'Strictly Come Dancing', 'Top of the Pops', and 'Pointless', among other shows - as "an exceptional kind, loyal, talented, telly loving director".
He tweeted on Monday (12.04.21): "I’m an absolutely heartbroken that my wonderful Stuey - Stuart McDonald died today in a car crash. He was a great friend and an exceptional kind loyal talented telly loving director. My Stuey, sort out the Gallery in Heaven now. Your Ricky (sic)"
Comedian Justin admitted Stuart was "one of the good guys".
He wrote: "Richard, I am so very sorry. That’s heartbreaking news. He really was one of the good guys. An exceptionally lovely human being. I’m so sorry. (sic)"
Comedy double act Dick and Dom - whose real names are Richard McCourt and Dominic Wood - tweeted: "Richard that is terrible news. Sorry to hear this. We were so lucky to have worked under his gentle command. Heart goes out to you and his loved ones. (sic)"
They also wrote: "A one off. You didn’t work in showbiz until you were directed by Stuart. X (sic)"
BBC Radio Oxford presenter David Prever also paid tribute to Stuart.
He told listeners: "I woke to some really upsetting news this morning that the man who gave me my break doing this 40 years ago - I was 12 years old - died yesterday.
"I doubt you would have known him, but I guarantee you will have seen his work over the years.
"His name is Stuart McDonald. He worked for many years as Senior Director of the BBC and he was responsible for pretty much most of the light entertainment television while I was growing up; 'Parkinson', 'Top of the Pops', all of the audience with shows, all of the 'Royal Variety' shows and the 'National Lottery' for years.
"It was his name there saying cue Terry, cue Gabby, cue Lenny, and all of those things. And right up to date with 'The Chase', 'Pointless' and so many other shows."