12 May 2023 , 18:17
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Broadcaster James Whale was handed a special award by his on-screen colleague and friend, Lizzie Cundy, to celebrate a landmark achievement.
The TalkTV star is this year celebrating five decades in the industry and is continuing to throw himself into work, despite his ongoing battle with terminal cancer.
Last year, James, 71, revealed that he had been diagnosed with terminal cancer which had spread to his brain, spine, kidney and lungs, stating he had months to live.
But his continued effort to work has seen him awarded a one-off TRIC award to celebrate his achievements before James emotionally revealed he may not be here for the next ceremony.
James Whale became emotional as Lizzie Cundy presented him the award (TalkTV)Taking to Twitter, TalkTV shared a video clip of Lizzie, 55, announcing that James had "no idea" he was about to receive the award and was told he had a meeting with his top bosses.
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After being asked by his boss how he was, he responded: "I'm OK, I'm not dead yet," before Lizzie spontaneously bursts through the door.
"James, I have something very special to give you my darling," she gushed before James joked that it wouldn't be a "good look" if he burst into tears.
Cundy continued: "You have had 50 years in television and radio, you are a living legend, and we all adore you.
James was handed the special TRIC Recognition Award for 50 years in the industry (TalkTV)"I can't think of anyone more deserving of the TRIC Recognition award, you have won for all services in radio and television. James, huge congratulations, from TRIC, from me and everyone at TalkTV."
Moved by the news, James addressed the camera saying: "Normally I'd say something sarcastic.
"I have been stitched up but thank you very much indeed, 50 years, I have managed to stay employed one way or another.
"I got one of these presented by Sir David Frost in 1975, I think and another one in 1984 and now towards the end, excellent, thank you very much indeed."
James was overcome with emotion (Lizzie Cundy)
The broadcaster is battling terminal cancer (PA)Taking to Twitter to celebrate the news, James penned: "Wish I dressed up a bit and now I've gotta get off the steroids and lose some weight but thanks again, guys.
"Lizzie has been a great friend for many many years, not to mention all the guys at Wireless whatever people say about this organisation in a negative way know nothing."
Before Christmas last year, James told an audience: "This time next year, I won't be here," as he revealed the condition of his health had rapidly deteriorated.
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