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Privacy NoticeSky Sports commentator Bill Arthur has died at the age of 68. The beloved former rugby league commentator passed away after a long battle with prostate cancer, Sky Sports confirmed. Bill had been diagnosed with the disease back in 2011. In a heartfelt statement, they said he passed away peacefully on Wednesday, surrounded by his family. The Sky statement read: “Bill was a much-loved and respected member of the Sky Sports family who will be missed terribly by his friends and colleagues. “Everyone at Sky Sports sends their heartfelt condolences to Bill’s loved-ones and ask that their privacy is respected at this difficult time.”
Tributes have poured in for Bill
(Image: VAUGHN RIDLEY/SWPIX.COM)
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He is survived by his wife Cherry and children Simon, Meredith, Kit, and Nancy. Hailing from Lemington Spa, Bill kicked off his career in journalism in South Yorkshire, writing for the Barnsley Star and Sheffield Star. He later made the switch to radio, lending his voice to Metro Radio and Radio City in Newcastle and Liverpool. A passionate rugby league enthusiast, Bill became a familiar face on the sidelines and as a feature reporter for the magazine show Boots ‘N’ All in the early ’90s. In April 2019, he stepped into the shoes of Eddie Hemmings as the primary rugby league commentator. Eddie paid tribute to Bill’s enduring legacy, stating “will live on forever”. He penned: “Bill Arthur… what a pro! I first crossed paths with Bill when I was at BBC Radio Merseyside in Liverpool. Bill was part of the ‘rival team’ at Radio City.” “As the game expanded on Sky, Bill’s commentary prowess came into play as he covered the Academy games alongside former Wigan and Great Britain captain Phil Clarke, spotting many of the young talents who later made their mark in the Super League when it was established in 1996. “This was the period when Bill’s career truly flourished – he was the main voice for many years of the Catalans Dragons matches from the South of France and was an integral part of the Sky Sports teams that embarked on Australian tours covering Great Britain Lions and more recently England Internationals. His commentary skills evolved as he called League One matches.. “He was the one who so vividly narrated the drama of St Helens’ last-minute try that clinched the Grand Final at Hull in a completely empty stadium against Wigan in the immediate aftermath of the Covid pandemic – a challenging task executed brilliantly against the backdrop of vacant seats and terraces. “But perhaps Bill’s most significant battle was when – like me – he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. His bravery in confronting the disease head-on was an inspiration to men like me, who followed his journey every step of the way. “He helped me fight the disease, which has now cruelly taken him from us, and I will never forget his support and the sound advice he gave me. Such a brave guy. “Rest in peace Billy-Boy – your legacy will live on forever.”Story SavedYou can find this story in My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right.Follow OK! MagazineFacebookTwitterCommentMore OnIn the News
