Esther Rantzen leaves final message advocating for assisted dying

The family of Dame Esther Rantzen has released a posthumous message from the broadcaster regarding her advocacy for assisted dying laws. Rantzen, the founder of Childline and former presenter of ‘That’s Life!’, passed away on September 30 at the age of 86 following a battle with stage four lung cancer.

In her final note, Rantzen expressed that the current legal framework deprived her of choice over her own death. She stated that while she might not have used the option, the existence of the law would have provided “the hope and confidence of a swift, pain-free death” and spared her family from witnessing her suffering. She encouraged campaigners to “battle on” regarding the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill.

Her daughter, Rebecca Wilcox, confirmed that a private funeral was held in the New Forest, describing it as “incredibly beautiful.” The family noted that a larger memorial service will be organized at a later date.