Former RTÉ news2day presenter Nick Sheridan dies aged 32

Updated: 1.45pm

Former RTÉ journalist Nick Sheridan has died, aged 32, after a "short illness".

BBC Scotland, where he had worked following his move from RTÉ, confirmed the news in a statement released on Thursday morning.

The Wexford man had previously worked as a presenter on RTÉ's children's news programme, news2day.

Managing director of RTÉ news & current affairs Deridre McCarthy said they are "devastated by the very sad news of Nick's sudden death".

"Not only a talented journalist, Nick was also incredibly generous with his time and was always willing to help out his newsroom colleagues. He was kind and generous, warm and enthusiastic.

So terribly sad to read this. It is truly awful. Nick was young, talented, vivacious, and full of potential. What a horrible, senseless loss. My thoughts are with his family, colleagues and many friends 💔 https://t.co/1hSXoLCf5L

— Nicola Sturgeon (@NicolaSturgeon) March 7, 2024

"We were delighted to see him go on to join BBC Scotland and to become a successful children's author. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. Ar Dheis Dé go raibh an Anam," Ms McCarthy added.

Former Scottish first minister Nicola Sturgeon also paid tribute to Sheridan, describing the news as "truly awful".

"Nick was young, talented, vivacious, and full of potential. What a horrible, senseless loss. My thoughts are with his family, colleagues and many friends."

Ms Sturgeon's successor Humza Yousaf also expressed his condolences during First Minister’s Questions at Holyrood on Thursday.

"I wanted to say on behalf of the Scottish government and the party I lead how sad we were about the tragic news of the loss of Nick Sheridan," Mr Yousaf said.

"Nick was an extremely talented journalist and author, he will be greatly missed. Many of us in this chamber will have been questioned by Nick, quite robustly no doubt, whether it was on BBC Drivetime or on many of the other programmes he presented.

"My thoughts are with his family, his many friends and indeed his colleagues at what will undoubtedly be a very sad time."

BBC Scotland's head of news & current affairs Gary Smith said his colleagues and friends were "devastated to hear the news".

"Nick has been a wonderful colleague," Mr Smith said.

"He was a hugely talented journalist, presenter and author – and one of those rare people who light up the lives of everyone around them. Funny, clever, kind. A lovely man."

Mr Smith also offered condolences to Sheridan's parents, partner, and family and friends.