Antiques Roadshow expert Theo Burrell dies aged 39

Theo Burrell, a beloved expert on the BBC's Antiques Roadshow, has died at the age of 39. Her passing comes four years after her diagnosis with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer, in June 2022.

“

She was an incredible person who fought hard for her family, friends and raising awareness of this cruel disease.

Burrell, who specialized in ceramics and glass with Lyon & Turnbull auctioneers in Edinburgh, joined the popular program in 2018. Her death was announced on her Instagram page, stating she died peacefully surrounded by her family. The post highlighted her strength in fighting the disease and her determination to witness significant life events, including her son's first day at school and her wedding.

“

She saw life events like her son's first day at school and her wedding that a little over four years ago we thought she'd never see.

Diagnosed at 35, Burrell experienced a range of severe symptoms before receiving her diagnosis at the Royal Infirmary in Edinburgh. She underwent treatments including surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, often speaking about her struggles with "dark thoughts" and fears of not seeing her son's second birthday. Despite the grim prognosis, she expressed gratitude for exceeding expectations and celebrating milestones.

“

But I'm lucky enough to say I did! And no-one can take that away from me.

Following her diagnosis, Burrell became a passionate advocate for brain cancer research. She focused her campaign efforts on increasing government funding, improving diagnostic times, and advancing clinical trials. In 2023, she became a patron of Brain Tumour Research, a charity dedicated to finding a cure. The organization's chief executive, Dan Knowles, remembered her as "phenomenal, determined, and truly inspiring."

“

We are heartbroken that we have lost the phenomenal, determined and truly inspiring Theo Burrell to this devastating disease.