Jonnie Irwin has described a fellow A Place in the Sun presenter as ‘a true friend’ as fans have hit out at how he was treated on the show. Jasmine Harman took to instagram to mark as win for the hit property show at the Television and Radio Industries Club Awards, in London.
She posted a picture of herself and Jonnie, 49,who is battling terminal cancer. Jonnie, who was also at the awards claimed last year that he had been axed from the show after his diagnosis.
He still appears on the BBC’s Escape to the Country and at the awards praised that show’s team as being ‘like a family’ and slammed his former bosses saying: ““With a notable exception from one production company, as soon as they found out they put their arm around me and, insurance provided, they looked for work when I could.
“I also wanted to show that because you have cancer it doesn’t mean you are a different person. You can still work. Look at me now! I don’t think the doctors were expecting me to make 2023 but here I am and I’m available at work. And I’m especially available to parties!” Jonnie previously spoke about how he felt “thrown on a scrap heap” by A Place In The Sun bosses after revealing his cancer diagnosis amid claims they couldn’t insure him.
Now in a new post Jasmine said: “Throwback to 2008 when @jonnieirwintv and I collected the TRIC award for Best Daytime programme. THRILLED to announce that today, A Place in the Sun was once again awarded this prestigious title; unfortunately I couldn’t be there as I’m away filming, but I am overflowing with gratitude to all the viewers and people who took the time to vote.
“Plus all of the incredible teams who pour their hearts into making the show what it is. Congratulations to everyone. BIG LOVE to all the other presenters and a personal shout out to my OG partner in crime, Jonnie. I especially want to tell you how much your contribution to the show over the years is enormously valued and you are very much loved.”
Jonnie replied: “You’re a diamond and a true friend. Xxx.” Fans immediately took to instagram to say they wished Jonnie was back on the show. Jhaughey88 said: “Crazy that a place in the sun couldn’t have changed up the format to have him maybe interviewing from the UK whilst another presenter revisits previous buyers or something like that . Would have provided an income for someone who was key to this shows success . Says a lot about an employer to drop a long time star of the show due to a terminal illness . (As I understand it , he couldn’t be insured to go abroad)”
Mjtbel replied: “100% agree with you. I can’t watch the show now. I’m sticking with Escape To The Country. At least Jasmine, who I love, has posted a picture of him.” Maryblaney added: “Jonnie and Jasmine two of the most genuine, authentic presenters on any T.V programme, bringing much warmth and humanity to our screens.” Stb 1960 said: “Shame that the show couldn’t show support to Jonnie ahem he needed it most, after all he had done to contribute to the shows success. Jonnie deserves so much more than that.”
