Long-serving BBC journalist and anchor George Alagiah died Monday at age 67 from complications of bowel cancer that he had battled for almost a decade. 

“I am so terribly sorry to inform you that George Alagiah died peacefully today, surrounded by his family and loved ones. George fought until the bitter end but sadly that battle ended earlier today. George was deeply loved by everybody who knew him, whether it was a friend, a colleague or a member of the public. He simply was a wonderful human being,” his agent Mary Greenham said, and Deadline reported.

Alagiah underwent 17 rounds of chemotherapy as he fought the cancer and also had most of his liver removed.

BBC Director General Tim Davie called him “one of the best and bravest journalists of his generation who reported fearlessly from across the world as well as presenting the news flawlessly.”

"More than just an outstanding journalist"

“He was more than just an outstanding journalist, audiences could sense his kindness, empathy and wonderful humanity,” added Davie. “He was loved by all and we will miss him enormously.”

Alagiah started out in 1989 as a foreign correspondent, then moved to hosting news bulletins in 2003 before becoming anchor a few years later.

His illness kept him away for some time, but he was able to return to the airwaves eventually. He left for the last time in October as the illness progressed.

More condolences

Other colleagues also expressed their condolences online.

BBC World Affairs editor John Simpson tweeted: "A gentler, kinder, more insightful and braver friend and colleague it would be hard to find."

BBC chief international correspondent Lyse Doucet called him "a great broadcaster", a "kind colleague" and "a thoughtful journalist".

Clive Myrie, presenting the BBC News at One, said, "On a personal note, George touched all of us here in the newsroom, with his kindness and generosity, his warmth and good humour. We loved him here at BBC News, and I loved him as a mentor, colleague and friend."

"An intensity"

Before he died, Alagiah expressed that his illness had been beneficial in some ways, even though ultimately it was not something he would have wanted.

“When you’re closer to your last day, you live each one with an intensity you couldn’t have previously imagined. Of course I wish I never had this disease, but I’m not sure I’d give these six years back. With friends, family and colleagues I’ve shared experiences and thoughts that we otherwise wouldn’t have had.”