Broadcasting legend Gerry Kelly has died at the age of 77, his family has announced.

The Ballymena-born presenter and journalist passed away at home on Sunday morning, surrounded by his family.

One of Northern Ireland’s best-known broadcasters, Kelly enjoyed a career spanning more than four decades across television and radio. He was best known for hosting UTV’s hit chat show Kelly, where he interviewed some of the biggest names in entertainment, sport and public life during its 16-year run.

Tributes have been paid by colleagues and friends across the broadcasting industry.

Broadcaster Ralph McLean described Kelly as ‘a natural broadcaster, great family man and always a gentleman’, adding: ‘He made it all look so easy..always a sign of class.’

BBC presenter William Crawley said: ‘He had a rare gift for drawing out a guest with deep curiosity and genuine warmth; he made interviews feel like real conversations. He inspired, encouraged and mentored other broadcasters too. A big star who was always a gentleman.’

Kelly began his broadcasting career as a part-time GAA reporter with UTV before returning to the station in 1979. He went on to present a number of popular programmes, including Lifestyle, Kelly on Tour and Kelly’s People, but it was the launch of Kelly in 1989 that cemented his place as one of Northern Ireland’s most beloved television personalities.

The programme ran for 571 episodes before ending in 2005 and featured countless high-profile guests.

Among its most memorable moments were an appearance by a nine-year-old Rory McIlroy after winning the World Under-10 Championship and a special interview with football icon George Best, which became the show’s highest-rated episode.

After Kelly ended, he joined BBC Radio Ulster in 2009, hosting a weekend programme, before returning to television in 2024 with Conversations with Gerry Kelly on Belfast station NVTV.

Kelly’s death marks the loss of one of Northern Ireland’s most familiar and respected broadcasting voices.