Jeremy Kyle tragic guest Steve Dymond's suicide inquest confirms surprise verdict

The Jeremy Kyle Show has been ruled out as a contributing factor to Steve Dymond's death, an inquest has heard.

Hampshire coroner Jason Pegg told the inquest that there is "insufficient evidence" to state the show was the direct cause of Dymond's death.

The conclusion was given that Dymond was suffering from "mental distress" at the belief that his relationship has broken down. 

He said at the inquest: "The deceased’s decision to take his own life was made in the context of his mental distress that was probably exacerbated by his belief that a significant relationship had now irretrievably broken down following his participation on a television programme where it had been suggested that the deceased had lied to his partner."

Pegg added: "It would be unsafe to infer these links in the absence of a clear and reliable casual connection. Steve Dymond’s participation in the show is one of a number of factors, and whilst possible that the manner experience added to his distress it is not probable.

"The weight which can be attached to these accounts must be balanced with the other evidence available in the aftermath of the show including Steve Dymond’s own reliability, the evidence from witnesses and the rush recordings.

"Aftercare records indicate Steve Dymond was ’emotionally contained’ and expressed no dissatisfaction towards his treatment during the recording with a plan for follow-up CBT support."

A representative for Jeremy Kyle has said: "His Majesty's Coroner has today clearly and unequivocally found that Jeremy Kyle did not in any way cause or contribute to the tragic suicide of Steve Dymond. He is now exonerated of that ill-informed accusation and his name has finally been cleared.

"Out of respect for the family of Mr Dymond and the judicial process, Jeremy has always maintained that it would be inappropriate to discuss details whilst the legal inquest was ongoing and he has remained steadfastly silent in the face of lies, false accusations and unfair criticism over the last 5 1/2 years.

"This has taken a huge toll on him and his family and he would like to thank everyone who has truly supported him through these tough times."

The Jeremy Kyle Show was axed in May 2019 after 14 years.

It came after guest Steve Dymond was found dead on May 9 a week after filming the show, where he failed a lie detector test.

At the time, ITV's chief executive Carolyn McCall said the decision to pull the show was due to the "gravity of recent events". At the time, the statement read: "The Jeremy Kyle Show has had a loyal audience and has been made by a dedicated production team for 14 years, but now is the right time for the show to end.

"Everyone at ITV's thoughts and sympathies are with the family and friends of Steve Dymond. The previously announced review of the episode of the show is under way and will continue.

"ITV will continue to work with Jeremy Kyle on other projects."

For emotional support you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website.