Overview
- Her family confirmed she died peacefully at home on Thursday 21 May 2026, surrounded by relatives after a recent decline in health while living with Alzheimer’s.
- Chalmers began broadcasting with the BBC at 13 and became best known for hosting ITV’s Wish You Were Here...? from 1974 to 2003.
- She was appointed an OBE in 1994 for services to broadcasting and tourism.
- She is survived by her husband Neil Durden‑Smith and their two children, including TV presenter Mark Durden‑Smith, and the family released a tribute saying she left “a giant suitcase of the happiest of memories.”
- Broadcasters, former colleagues and viewers have paid tribute this weekend and her death has renewed public attention on Alzheimer’s and the care needs of people living with dementia.