Jonnie Irwin's widow gives insight into his death: 'It was a f****** awful process'

Jonnie Irwin’s wife Jessica Holmes has opened up on the heartbreaking death of her husband. On February 2, the presenter’s family released a statement on social media to confirm the tragic news.

The 50-year-old A Place in the Sun star left behind three young children after losing his battle with cancer. Initially, the star was diagnosed with lung cancer, which later spread to his brain.

Although Jonnie was told at the time of his diagnosis that he had six months to live, the star exceeded the doctor's expectations. Speaking to the Daily Mail recently, Jessica detailed the heartbreaking final moments with her husband.

She said: “You hear people say: 'He passed away peacefully. It was lovely'. But it wasn't for Jonnie. It was a f****** awful process. I wish I hadn't seen it but I had to be with him."

Jessica confessed she felt helpless and asked the nurses at the time if there was anything that she could do to help. Speaking to the publication, Jessica revealed it was heartbreaking to see Jonnie in that condition.

She added: “He was surrounded by love and in our home, as he wanted, not in a hospice.

“It is not peaceful. People are upset and I had our three little boys to manage. Even at the end, Jonnie didn't want to go. He was fighting to the last."

Admitting she hated lying next to him knowing he was dying, Jessica shared that even when cuddling him, Jonnie was in a lot of pain.

Recalling constantly moving him and administering drugs, she detailed Jonnie told her that he was fine when asked if there was anything she could do to help.

Still struggling with what Jonnie had to go through, Jessica praised her husband’s strength and selflessness throughout the battle.

Admitting he wasn’t just her best friend, Jessica said: “He was my lover, protector, the person I wanted to share my life with and it was such a mad, adventurous, fun life with him.

"I feel like I'm still living in Jonnie's world. His friends are my friends now. He renovated this house."

Jonnie first realised something wasn’t quite right when filming an episode of A Place In The Sun back in 2020 when his vision became blurry.

Sharing a statement on his official Instagram in February confirming Jonnie’s death, his loved ones paid tribute to his “unwavering strength and courage”.

The statement reads: "It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Jonnie’s passing. A truly remarkable soul, he fought bravely against cancer with unwavering strength and courage.

“Jonnie touched the lives of so many with his kindness, warmth, and infectious spirit. At this time, we kindly ask for the privacy of Jonnie’s family as they navigate through this profound loss.

"Their grief is immeasurable, and your thoughts, prayers, and support are deeply appreciated.”