While many heartfelt tributes are being paid to legendary Irish broadcaster Terry Wogan today, one newspaper headline has caused controversy by seemingly making light of his death.
The iconic radio and tv star passed away yesterday at the age of 77 after a short but brave battle with cancer. While many warm tributes today are fitting for the class act, the UK Daily Star decided to opt for a cheap pun, which has made a lot of people angry.
‘Top o’ the mourning,’ reads the headline, referring to the BBC star’s Irish roots. This was followed up by ‘Laugh and Times of Tv & Radio Legend.’
Twitter was quick to react, and while some said the presenter would have found it funny due to his self-deprecating nature, others argued that he deserved a more sensitive tribute.
“Seriously Daily Star, a man of Sir Terry’s stature deserved a better headline and a full front page……disgraceful!!!! Rip Terry,” one tweeted, while another said: “Slightly racist, very disrespectful & highly inappropriate #TerryWogan”
Meanwhile, other tributes have been hailed as heartwarming, most notably a sketch by racing artist Darren Bird which shows the iconic Children in Need bear with a single tear and a black band across one eye.
Pudsey bear, the mascot of Children in Need, became synonymous with Terry as he was the fundraising shows’ host for many years.
