BBC TV legend found dead in shed after receiving devastating letter
Daniel Postgate, the beloved illustrator and BAFTA-winning creator, tragically died by suicide in June at age 61. An inquest revealed his death came one day after he received a letter from the NHS about his health.
Postgate was facing immense personal challenges, including a recent separation from his partner of 35 years. He was also battling myelodysplastic syndrome, a form of blood cancer, after previously undergoing grueling treatment for aplastic anaemia.
In a note left for his family, Postgate indicated the NHS letter had deeply affected him. His relatives believe he meticulously researched its contents and said it was “the straw that broke the camel’s back.”
He expressed in his note that he was frightened his illness might not be curable. His final wish for his family was simple and heartfelt: “I hope you all have wonderful lives, and remember to love each other.”
His brother, Simon, noted that Daniel had lived with underlying depression for about 40 years. This made his true state of mind difficult to discern, even during their final conversation.
The coroner concluded that Postgate took his own life. She stated his note clearly showed a deliberate act and a desire not to endure further treatment.
Professionally, Postgate continued his family’s legacy by running Smallfilms, the company behind the iconic children’s show *Bagpuss*. He was working on a *Bagpuss* film at the time of his death, leaving behind a cherished creative legacy.
