Mark Chapman’s Poignant Tribute to John Hunt, a Bereaved Colleague

A Heartbreaking Tragedy and a Touching On-Air Homage

In the aftermath of a devastating crossbow attack that claimed the lives of John Hunt’s wife and two daughters, BBC colleague Mark Chapman delivered a heartfelt on-air tribute that resonated deeply with listeners.

Hunt, a respected horse racing commentator for BBC Radio 5 Live, had been working at Lingfield Racecourse hours before the tragedy struck his family home in Bushey, Hertfordshire.

As England prepared to face the Netherlands in a Euro 2024 semi-final clash, Chapman’s voice trembled with emotion as he began the pre-match buildup.

“Good evening from Germany,” he uttered solemnly. “We have a football match to bring you tonight, and we will. We will start our build-up shortly.

“But this has been a heartbreaking day. John Hunt is our colleague, and our friend. Not just to the current 5 Live sport team, but to all those that have worked here with him for the past 20 years, and also to all of you who have enjoyed his superb commentaries.”

With palpable sorrow in his tone, Chapman expressed the collective grief and support of the 5 Live Sport team.

“On behalf of everybody connected to 5 Live Sport, our love and thoughts and support are with John and his family.”

Listeners’ Outpouring of Condolences

Listeners were profoundly moved by Chapman’s tribute, taking to social media to share their empathy and admiration for his sensitivity.

“I just cannot fathom the heartbreak that John is going through right now and hearing Mark’s voice full of emotion is a painful listen even for those of us that don’t know John Hunt. My prayers are with him right now,” one listener wrote.

Another praised Chapman’s professionalism, stating, “Absolute class from Mark Chapman in very difficult circumstances. He always gets the tone exactly right.”

A third commented, “You are one very class act Mr Chapman, that wasn’t easy to do. Our thoughts are also with the team, the family of a great man.”

“I have long thought Mark Chapman as the best sports presenter we’ve ever had. He is also a heck of a man. That cannot have been easy. Thinking of John tonight, who I hope is with loved ones,” another listener tweeted.

A Tragic Event and the Power of Human Connection

The tragedy that befell Hunt’s family has cast a long shadow over the BBC community and the wider sporting world. Chapman’s tribute served as a poignant reminder of the human face behind the news headlines and the importance of offering support in times of unimaginable grief.

In the face of such adversity, Chapman’s words brought a sense of unity and compassion, echoing the sentiments of those who had been touched by Hunt’s commentaries and the unwavering spirit of the human connection that transcends tragedy.