Ruth Langsford is "heartbroken" after the death of her sister, Julia Johnson

21 June 2019, 11:09

Ruth Langsford will now take a step back from her TV presenting duties, including This Morning.

Ruth Langsford has said she is “heartbroken” following the death of her sister, Julia Johnson, aged 62.

The TV presenter posted a photo of herself with her older sister Julia, telling fans that she had passed away following a “very long illness”.

The photo shows the two women sitting by a field and smiling, with Ruth writing: “My lovely Sis Julia has sadly died after a very long illness. My heart is completely broken.

“She was the kindest and most gentle soul and I will miss her forever.

“As I am sure you will appreciate I need to take time to grieve with my family. Thank you for your understanding.”

Ruth will now take a hiatus from her TV work, including This Morning, which she hosts with husband Eamonn Holmes on Fridays.

An ITV spokesperson said: “Our thoughts and condolences are with Ruth and her family at this incredibly sad time.

“As Ruth has said she is taking time to grieve and she has our full support.”

Ruth also appears on panel show Loose Women.

Various fans and celebrity pals have since sent Ruth kind words, including her former Strictly co-star Gemma Atkinson, who tweeted: “I’m so sorry Ruth. Sending lots of love to you all.”

TV presenter Kate Thornton said: “Oh Ruth, I’m so sorry to hear that. Thoughts are with you and sending all my love x.” Melanie Sykes also posted: “Oh Ruth I’m so sorry x sending you so much love.”

Ruth Langsford was born in Singapore, to parents Dennis and Joan Langsford. She lived in five different countries before she was ten, including Germany and four countries in North Africa.