Ashley Roberts made an embarrassing error during Thursday morning’s Breakfast Show when she incorrectly announced the death of Hollywood legend Dick Van Dyke.
While delivering entertainment news alongside hosts Amanda Holden and Jamie Theakston, the former Pussycat Doll declared: “Dawson’s Creek’s Dick Van Dyke has passed away.”
Mr Theakston immediately stepped in to address the mistake. He said: “Not Dick Van Dyke – come on. If you’re going to do a sensitive moment, if you’re going to do an obituary, you can’t just say Dick Van Dyke.”
“He’s alive,” Ms Holden added, as the Heart Radio presenter laughed at her own blunder before apologising and confirming she had meant to say James Van Der Beek.
Ashley Roberts made the embarrassing mistake while presenting Heart Radio
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PAThe actor Ms Roberts had intended to reference was James Van Der Beek, the Dawson’s Creek star who passed away on Wednesday evening at the age of 48 following his battle with colorectal cancer.
Since news of his death emerged, fellow cast members have paid tribute to the late actor on social media.
Katie Holmes, who played his on-screen romantic interest, commended his “bravery, compassion, selflessness and strength” along with his “appreciation for life.”
“This is a lot to process. I am so grateful to have shared in a piece of James’ journey. He is beloved,” Ms Holmes wrote.
Dick Van Dyke is still alive
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GettyActress Busy Philipps described Mr Van Der Beek as “one in a billion” who would be “forever missed.”
Fans of the beloved actor were quick to flood his comments with tributes to the star.
“Heartbreaking. such a sweet human. love to your family,” one fan wrote, while another commented: “This man. His incredible wife. And their amazing children…. Have all changed me forever…. For the better.”
Another penned: “Sending you all my love. His life is a blessing that will continue on in so many ways.”
James Van Der Beek passed away on February 11
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GETTYA fourth fan added: “Heartbroken at the injustice of the GOOD ones we lose early. It’s not fair.”
Following the announcement of Van Der Beek’s death, his widow, Kimberly Van Der Beek directed followers to a GoFundMe campaign established to help the family through their current difficulties.
The page raised over $1million (£731,700) in just 24 hours.
The couple, who have six children together, are facing significant financial pressures as a result of the actor’s prolonged illness.
“The costs of James’s medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds,” Kimberly explained on social media.
She added that the family is striving to remain in their home whilst ensuring their children can continue their schooling and maintain some normality during this challenging period.
Mr Van Dyke, meanwhile, remains in excellent health, having celebrated his centenary in December.
The beloved entertainer has attributed his remarkable fitness to a lifelong commitment to physical activity.
Amanda Holden was presenting the show with Ms Roberts at the time of the blunder
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PASpeaking on the Where Everybody Knows Your Name podcast last year, he explained his approach to staying healthy.
“Somebody said, ‘To what do you attribute your age and physical condition?’ and I said, ‘I’ve always exercised’,” Mr Van Dyke revealed.
The centenarian continues to visit the gym three times each week, where his routine includes stretching exercises, yoga-style movements and sit-ups.