Author and broadcaster Deirdre Purcell has passed away aged 77.
She passed away at her home in Mornington, Co Meath, this morning and is survived by her husband, Kevin Healy and her two sons Adrian and Simon Weckler.
Her family announced the news in a statement to the Independent, reading: “We are all deeply grieving the sudden loss of Deirdre, to the day before her death Deirdre was as full of plans, schemes and dreams as she always was.”
“Deirdre made friends wherever she went and will be remembered by so many as a vibrant, clever and caring companion. The talent, vivacity and sharp mind that made her an award-winning journalist, a globally successful fiction writer and – in her youth- a talented Abbey Theatre actress, never left her. She was a force of nature and we will miss her desperately.”
RIP Deirdre Purcell -dreadfully sad news. An absolute gem of a woman. Brilliant writer & broadcaster. We always had great fun when she was on @morningireland -initially chatting about how exhausted we were, and then I’d fill her in on the gossip of the day! Rest easy. pic.twitter.com/02w8TFWmSW
— Des Cahill (@sportsdes) February 13, 2023
Deirdre had a long and illustrious career in the Irish media. Starting with her time as an actress at the Abbey Theatre, where she starred in productions such as Drama at Inish, and The Ginger Man.
The Dubliner then ventured into broadcasting, becoming the first female anchor of the Nine O’Clock news on RTÉ Television. While her print work earned her a journalist of the year award in 1986.
Deirdre was also a prolific fiction writer, having published twelve novel, all of which became bestsellers.
She also ventured into radio, presenting It Says in the Papers for Morning Ireland on RTÉ Radio 1.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Deirdre’s family and friends during this difficult time.