BBC Breakfast host delivers heartbreaking death announcement as tributes flood in
BBC Breakfast presenters Charlie Stayt and Emma Vardy paid a moving tribute on the show
Charlie Stayt
BBC Breakfast took a turn as Charlie Stayt broke heartbreaking news to viewers during the live broadcast. On Saturday’s (December 27) edition of the popular BBC programme, Charlie was back on screen with co-host Emma Vardy, presenting the day’s major headlines from across the globe.
Charlie revealed that Perry Bamonte had tragically died aged 65, with the BBC show honouring the late musician.
Addressing audiences at home, Charlie said: “Now the guitarist and keyboard player with The Cure, Perry Bamonte, has died at the age of 65.”
Emma added: “He featured on albums including Wild Mood Swings and Bloodflowers. The band said he died after a “short illness”.”
The programme then aired a pre-recorded segment with reporter Tim Allman, reflecting on the star’s life and musical legacy. The band’s official website broke the tragic news that the musician had died over the Christmas period, reports the Express.
Charlie and Emma presented BBC Breakfast together(Image: BBC)
In a statement, they wrote: “It is with enormous sadness that we confirm the death of our great friend and bandmate Perry Bamonte, who passed away after a short illness at home over Christmas.”
Described as “quiet, intense, intuitive, constant and hugely creative”, Perry was fondly remembered by his fellow band members as “a warm-hearted and vital part of The Cure story”.
Perry contributed to some of The Cure’s most iconic hits, playing guitar, six-string bass, and keyboard on albums including Wish, Wild Mood Swings, Bloodflowers, and Acoustic Hits, as well as The Cure.
Known affectionately as Teddy, the musician joined the band in 1990 and remained until 2005, before rejoining in 2022. Throughout his time with them, he performed in over 400 shows with the iconic group.
“Our thoughts and condolences are with all his family. He will be very greatly missed,” the tribute continued.
Perry Bamonte died at the age of 65(Image: BBC)
He became a permanent member of the band following Roger O’Donnell’s departure and was set to perform on The Cure’s UK and European tour in 2026. Gigs are planned for cities including Cardiff, Dublin, Berlin, Edinburgh, and Manchester.
After news of his death emerged, many turned to social media to share tributes. Perry’s former bandmate, drummer Lol Tolhurst, posted a heartfelt message on Instagram.
He wrote: “So sad to hear about Perry Bamonte passing. Cindy (Tolhurst’s wife) and I send our condolences to all that knew him. Farewell, Teddy.”
One devastated fan said, “R.I.P. Perry Bamonte, your music with The Cure changed my life.” Another commented, “Rest in peace, Perry Bamonte. His work helped shape a defining era of The Cure.”
A third said: “Gutted about Perry Bamonte, the most liveliest member of The Cure.” Meanwhile, one added, “Rest in peace Perry Bamonte. The Cure fans all around the world are grieving today.”
BBC Breakfast airs daily from 6am on BBC One and iPlayer.
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