Who is George Alagiah?
George Maxwell Alagiah OBE, born in Colombo, Ceylon on November 22, 1955, and passing away in London, England on July 24, 2023, was an esteemed British newsreader, journalist, and television presenter. He served as the BBC News at Six presenter from 2007 to 2022 and was the primary face of GMT on BBC World News from its inception in 2010 until 2014. Throughout his extensive career, Alagiah played a pivotal role in shaping journalism and broadcasting.
George Alagiah birthday and death date.
He was born on November 22, 1955 in Colombo, Ceylon. Alagiah died on July 24, 2023, at 67 due to colorectal cancer.
George Alagiah height and weight
He had an average height of 5 feet 7 inches and a weight of around 70 kilograms.
George Alagiah educational background
Maxwell Alagiah, the esteemed British newsreader, journalist, and television presenter, had a remarkable educational journey that began in Colombo, Ceylon (now Sri Lanka), where he was born on November 22, 1955, to Donald Alagiah, an engineer, and Therese, both Ceylon Tamils. His family moved to Ghana in 1961, where he attended Christ the King International School for primary education before continuing his studies at St John’s College in Portsmouth, England.
Alagiah pursued his interest in politics at Durham University’s Van Mildert College, majoring in political science. During his time at Durham, he actively engaged in student journalism as a writer and editor for the student newspaper Palatinate, alongside holding a position as a sabbatical officer in the Durham Students’ Union. George Alagiah’s educational journey, from his early years in Ghana to his academic pursuits and impactful broadcasting career, serves as a testament to his dedication and excellence, inspiring aspiring journalists and communicators globally.
Alagiah spouse and children
Maxwell Alagiah, the esteemed British newsreader, journalist, and television presenter, enjoyed a fulfilling family life with his wife, Frances Robathan. They first met during their time at Durham University in the 1970s and later tied the knot in 1984, marking the beginning of their nearly four-decade-long marriage characterized by a strong and enduring bond. Throughout his battle with cancer, George openly expressed deep affection for Frances, reflecting on their profound love and wondering about the possibility of holding her hand until the end, showcasing the depth of their connection.
Together, George and Frances are proud parents to two sons. Adam, aged 36, pursued studies in international development, while Matthew, aged 32, followed in his father’s footsteps as a writer. Matthew’s career path led him to become the editor-in-chief of the creative agency It’s Nice That, carrying forward the family’s legacy in the realm of storytelling and communication. The Alagiah family’s journey highlights not only George’s professional accomplishments but also the strength and unity they found in their familial relationships.
George parents and siblings
His parents, Donald Alagiah (an engineer), and Therese were Ceylon Tamils. The family moved to Ghana in West Africa in 1961, where George attended Christ the King International School for his primary education. Growing up alongside four sisters provided him with a supportive and nurturing environment that influenced his early years significantly.
George Alagiah’s career
George Maxwell Alagiah, a distinguished British newsreader, journalist, and television presenter, embarked on a remarkable journey that began with his early life and education. Born in Colombo, Ceylon, on November 22, 1955, to Donald Alagiah and Therese, Ceylon Tamils, George’s family later relocated to Ghana, where he attended Christ the King International School for his primary education. Growing up alongside four sisters, he developed a strong foundation shaped by a supportive family environment. His academic path led him to St John’s College in Portsmouth, England, followed by studies in politics at Van Mildert College, Durham University, laying the groundwork for his future endeavors.
Entering the professional realm in the 1980s, George Alagiah’s early career flourished as he transitioned from print journalism to broadcasting. He worked as the Africa Editor for South Magazine before joining the BBC in 1989. Notably, in 2004, he returned to Sri Lanka after the devastating Asian tsunami, revisiting his childhood memories despite the destruction he encountered.
George’s broadcasting career at the BBC spanned several significant roles and contributions. He served as a Developing World correspondent and Southern Africa correspondent, reporting on pivotal global events such as the Rwandan genocide, conflicts in Iraq, Afghanistan, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Somalia, and more. His tenure as the deputy anchor for BBC One O’Clock News and BBC Nine O’Clock News, along with presenting roles on BBC Four News and The World, solidified his reputation as a fearless reporter with a compassionate approach.
George Alagiah’s impactful journalism and dedication to truth-seeking continue to resonate, leaving an enduring legacy that inspires future generations. His career exemplifies the power of storytelling in shaping public discourse and fostering understanding of complex global issues.
George Alagiah net worth and salary
As of 2024, George Alagiah’s estimated net worth falls between $1 million and $5 million, largely attributed to his prosperous career as a broadcast journalist. During his time as a BBC presenter in 2018–2019, he earned an annual salary within the range of £315,000 to £319,999, reflecting his substantial income from his prominent role in the media industry.
