British TV Presenter Michael Mosley Found Dead on Greek Island
The body of renowned British TV presenter and author, Dr. Michael Mosley, was discovered on the Greek island of Symi after an extensive days-long search. Mosley, 67, who was widely recognized for his numerous health-related TV programs and books, went missing on Wednesday afternoon while hiking.
Mosley’s body was found on Sunday morning by a search party that included local mayor Lefteris Papakalodoukas and journalists.
He was located among rocks on a rugged stretch of the island’s coast, about 20 meters above the Agia Marina beach. The island’s mayor, Papakalodoukas, confirmed the sighting after zooming in with cameras. Mosley appeared to have fallen down a steep slope and was lying face-up next to a fence with some rocks on top of him.
Mosley’s wife, Dr. Clare Bailey Mosley, confirmed the devastating news in a statement.
“Michael was an adventurous man, it’s part of what made him so special. It’s devastating to have lost Michael, my wonderful, funny, kind, and brilliant husband. We had an incredibly lucky life together. We loved each other very much and were so happy together,” she said.
His disappearance triggered an extensive search operation involving the police, fire brigade, coast guard, and numerous volunteers.
Unfortunately, he had not taken his phone with him, complicating the search efforts. The search was initially focused on the Pedi area after a local reported seeing him on Wednesday. His body was eventually found near the beach not far from this area.
Dr. Mosley was a household name in the UK, known for his contributions to health and nutrition through television, radio, and print.
He was the co-author of the popular 5:2 diet book, which advocated intermittent fasting by minimizing calorie intake two days a week. His work extended beyond the UK, influencing diet and health practices worldwide.
His career in media began as a producer at the BBC before he transitioned to on-screen roles. He hosted various programs such as Trust Me, I’m A Doctor and Michael Mosley: Who Made Britain Fat?
He also made significant contributions to scientific journalism, famously living with tapeworms for six weeks for the BBC documentary Infested! Living with Parasites. His Emmy-nominated mini-series The Human Face explored the science behind facial beauty and expression.
Tributes poured in from colleagues and admirers following the news of his death. Mimi Spencer, his co-author on “The Fast Diet,” remembered him as “immediately likeable, genuinely funny, and enthusiastic.”
Tom Watson, former deputy leader of Britain’s Labour Party, praised Mosley’s impactful work on public health, stating that he had personally benefited from Mosley’s diet books. Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver and Dr. Saleyha Ahsan, his co-host on “Trust Me, I’m A Doctor,” also expressed their admiration and sorrow.
Dr. Clare Bailey Mosley expressed her profound gratitude to the people of Symi who tirelessly assisted in the search.
“Some of these people on the island, who hadn’t even heard of Michael, worked from dawn till dusk unasked,” she said, highlighting the communal effort and support from the island’s residents.
Mosley’s body has been transported to the nearby island of Rhodes for a formal autopsy. His legacy as a beloved TV personality, dedicated scientist, and health advocate endures, remembered by his family, friends, and the many lives he touched through his work.