
Title: Johnny Vaughan Confirms Death of ‘Dearest’ Father Randal in Moving Social Media Tribute
Johnny Vaughan Pays Tribute to Late Father Randal on Instagram
By Jason Chester, Assistant Showbusiness Editor
Published: 10:23 BST, 31 August 2025 | Updated: 11:24 BST, 31 August 2025
TV and radio presenter Johnny Vaughan announced the death of his father, Randal, in an emotional Instagram post on Sunday. The 59-year-old former Big Breakfast host shared a heartfelt tribute alongside nostalgic photos of his father, writing: “My Dearest Dad has gone and I’m so very sad.”
Accompanying the post was a poignant lyric from the classic ballad I’ll Be Seeing You: “I will find you in the morning sun and when the night is new, I’ll be looking at the moon but I’ll be seeing you.”
[Image: Johnny Vaughan sharing a throwback photo with his father Randal. Caption: Vaughan posted touching memories of his late father on Instagram.]
Celebrity friends rushed to offer condolences. Denise Van Outen, Vaughan’s co-host on The Big Breakfast from 1998 to 2001, commented: “Thinking of you Johnny. Sending you the biggest hug.” Kelly Brook, who joined the show after Van Outen, added: “So sorry to hear this—sending all the love.” Presenters Kate Thornton and Richard Bacon also shared supportive messages.
Vaughan rose to fame as the lively host of Channel 4’s The Big Breakfast, which peaked at 2 million viewers during his tenure. His chemistry with Van Outen became iconic, though the duo faced a 23-year pay dispute before reconciling during the COVID-19 pandemic. Reflecting on their friendship, Vaughan once said: “You can only fall out with someone you really like… that’s the way of friendship.”
[Image: Johnny and Denise Van Outen on The Big Breakfast in 1998. Caption: Vaughan and Van Outen became household names during their Big Breakfast era.]
In 2020, Vaughan revisited the show’s original studio in East London, reminiscing about the “great memories” and the cottage’s transformation. “It’s quite an emotional visit,” he admitted, noting how the set’s rustic charm had turned into a luxury property.
The Instagram tribute included snapshots of Randal’s life, from his army days to family moments. Vaughan’s followers flooded the comments with support, honoring the bond between father and son.
[Image: Randal Vaughan in his younger years. Caption: A vintage photo of Randal during his military service.]
Johnny Vaughan continues to be remembered for his wit and warmth on-screen, but today, fans are united in mourning with him during this personal loss.
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