‘AN ICON HAS GONE SILENT.’ Beloved investigative journalist and The Cook Report presenter Roger Cook has died aged 83 following a short illness, bringing an emotional close to a career that defined hard-hitting television for a generation. Cook, who survived cancer twice and became one of Britain’s most fearless investigative reporters, is being remembered for his relentless pursuit of truth and his uncompromising style that exposed wrongdoing at the highest levels. News of his passing has triggered an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and viewers who grew up watching his groundbreaking work. As the television world reflects on his extraordinary legacy, many have described him as “irreplaceable” and “a true giant of journalism,” with memories of his most powerful investigations resurfacing across social media. A pioneering voice. A fearless career. And a legacy that will continue to shape investigative journalism for years to come.

BAFTA award-winning investigative journalist Roger Cook has died following a short illness.

The New Zealand-born British star presenter was most famous for exposing criminals, con men, and corruption and had survived cancer twice.

He is best known for his hard-hitting television series The Cook Report, which aired on ITV for more than a decade and Checkpoint on BBC Radio 4.

A statement from his family released on Monday read: ‘It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Roger Cook, who died peacefully on Saturday after a short illness.

‘Alongside a distinguished and award winning career in journalism, Roger was first and foremost a beloved husband and father.

‘He will be deeply missed by all of us, and we ask for privacy as we navigate this difficult loss.’

Roger Cook has died aged 83 following a short illness after surviving cancer twice

Pictured alongside Debbie Currie in The Cook Report in 1997

A statement from ITV added: ‘In a career spanning an incredible five decades, Roger Cook’s groundbreaking approach to investigative journalism made him one of broadcasting’s most trusted and respected figures.

‘On his eponymous current affairs programme, The Cook Report, Roger worked tirelessly to expose criminal wrongdoing and injustice, helping to drive important and lasting changes in the law.

‘His fearless contribution to journalism will long be remembered, and we send our deepest sympathies and condolences to his wife, family and friends at this difficult time.’

A family statement read: ‘Alongside a distinguished and award winning career in journalism, Roger was first and foremost a beloved husband and father’