Terry Wogan’s wife Helen hailed as ’embodiment of grace’ after his death

Dubliner Helen Wogan, wife of the late TV veteran Terry Wogan, has died after a “fantastic life”, her son has announced.

Mark Wogan said he hoped his mother and father, who died of cancer in January 2016 aged 77, “were sharing a vodka martini and hoping we wouldn’t cause too much trouble”.

Announcing the news on Instagram, Mr Wogan shared a video featuring photos of his mother and father over the years writing: “Lady Helen Wogan 1936-2024”.

“Our beautiful mother left us last night after a fantastic life,” he wrote.

“From a young Irish rose to Lady Wogan, she was the embodiment of style and grace.

“A mother, a grandmother and a wife, with love and kindness at her core. A strength and conviction that have enabled her to get through many of life’s challenges.

“A sense of humor and a turn of phrase that would make you die laughing.

“A true lady in every sense of the word.”

Famous faces who paid tribute included TV stars Fearne Cotton, Jamie Redknapp, Julia Bradbury, Laura Whitmore, Ronan Keating and Tess Daly.

Jeremy Clarkson wrote: “It’s horrible when this happens. Thinking of you.”

Eamonn Holmes said: “What a woman and what a couple.”

Terry Wogan at home with Helen in 1970. Photo: Chris Ware/Keystone Features/Getty Images

Terry and Helen were married for decades and lived together in the English village of Taplow for more than 40 years.

The Limerick-born presenter was known for his chat shows Children In Need and his often scathing commentary on the Eurovision Song Contest.

As well as his long-running morning show on Radio 2, he also hosted the long-running debate show Blankety Blank.