Lorraine Kelly’s Emotional Tribute: ‘We Are Remembering Someone Very Special’

Lorraine Kelly returned to ITV screens on Tuesday morning with a visibly emotional message, paying tribute to her late friend, Kris Hallenga. Just minutes into the show, Lorraine, 64, paused to deliver the heartbreaking news about someone who had touched both her life and the lives of many viewers.

Before diving into the day’s topics, Lorraine made the solemn announcement. “First, though, we are remembering someone very special, a campaigner and a big friend of this show, Kris Hallenga, who died earlier this year,” she said, her voice filled with emotion. The loss of Hallenga, who was just 38, left a deep impact on Lorraine and the entire Lorraine show team.

Kris Hallenga was a beloved figure, known for her tireless advocacy and unique approach to living with terminal cancer. Diagnosed with incurable stage four breast cancer at just 23 years old, Kris spent the next 15 years inspiring others with her positive outlook on life despite her prognosis. Lorraine highlighted Kris’s influence, saying, “Her life is the subject of a new documentary that airs tonight. It highlights her unique philosophy on living with terminal cancer and the impact she made on all of us.”

Kris had become a familiar face on Lorraine, often appearing to share her journey and offer support to others dealing with similar diagnoses. Her legacy as a campaigner, particularly through her charity CoppaFeel!, which raises awareness about the importance of early breast cancer detection, continues to inspire thousands.

Lorraine’s tribute was brief but heartfelt, and it was clear that Kris’s passing had deeply affected her. “She was only 38,” Lorraine continued, underscoring the tragedy of losing such a vibrant and positive person at such a young age. The tribute set a somber yet reflective tone for the morning show, as viewers joined Lorraine in remembering a truly remarkable individual.

The documentary about Kris Hallenga’s life, which aired that evening, aims to celebrate her legacy and the indomitable spirit with which she approached her illness. Lorraine’s heartfelt words served as a reminder of the powerful impact Kris had on everyone who knew her, both personally and through her work as a breast cancer advocate.