Kate Garraway Reveals Heartbreaking Message Son Billy Wanted to Shout Out at NTAs – Which Left Her ‘Floored’
Kate Garraway has opened up about an emotional moment at the National Television Awards (NTAs) that nearly left her speechless.
The Good Morning Britain host was joined by her children, Darcey, 18, and Billy, 12, as she accepted the award for Best Authored Documentary for Derek’s Story.
The documentary, which followed the final months of her late husband Derek Draper’s life, touched the hearts of viewers across the UK.
While the win was a significant achievement, Kate described the moment as “bittersweet,”
especially when her son Billy expressed a deeply emotional sentiment that she admitted would have “floored” her.
A Bittersweet Victory
During the awards ceremony at The O2 Arena, Kate, 56, was visibly emotional as she stepped on stage with her children to accept the Best Authored Documentary award. The documentary, Derek’s Story, highlighted not only her husband’s battle with long-term complications from Covid-19 but also the challenges faced by unpaid carers across the country.
Kate, who has always been open about her struggles, told the audience:
“This is a bittersweet one, isn’t it? It’s very bitter to be here, with the gorgeous Darcey and Billy. We’re halfway through the first year of firsts—first Easter, first birthdays—without Derek. It’s so strange to be here for the first NTAs without him.”
While she was immensely proud of the recognition, she acknowledged how difficult it was to celebrate without her husband by her side.
Billy’s Heartfelt Words That Almost Left Kate Speechless
The most touching moment of the night came backstage, where Billy expressed a desire to say something to the audience. Recalling the moment during Good Morning Britain the next day, Kate shared her son’s emotional words with co-host Susanna Reid, 53.
“Billy wanted to say, ‘Dad lives on in our hearts.’”
Kate admitted that if her son had spoken those words on stage, she might not have been able to hold back her emotions.
“I said, ‘I’m glad you didn’t, I think that would have floored me.’”
Her son’s simple yet powerful statement encapsulated the ongoing grief and love the family still feels for Derek, who passed away in January at age 56 after years of health struggles following his Covid-19 diagnosis.
Facing Backlash for Derek’s Story
Despite the overwhelming support for Derek’s Story, Kate has also spoken out about the backlash she faced following the documentary’s release. While many viewers praised her for bringing attention to the struggles of unpaid carers, others took to social media to criticize and troll her.
On Good Morning Britain, Kate admitted:
“There has been a bit of backlash, which is really heartbreaking, because the documentary was never about me—it was about Derek, about carers, and about the system that so many people are struggling with.”
She emphasized that she took part in the documentary not for personal attention but to raise awareness about the ongoing crisis in social care.
Kate’s Promise to Her Children
While Kate remains dedicated to honoring Derek’s memory, she has also made it clear that her top priority is her children.
During the NTAs, she reassured Darcey and Billy that they were under no pressure to speak if they didn’t feel comfortable.
“I promised them they didn’t have to say anything if we won.”
As the family continues to navigate life without Derek, Kate remains focused on creating new memories while keeping his spirit alive.
A Powerful Night of Recognition
Kate’s win at the NTAs was a moment of triumph and reflection, highlighting not just her family’s loss but also the broader struggles faced by millions of unpaid carers.
While the night was filled with mixed emotions, Billy’s heartfelt words served as a reminder that Derek’s legacy will always live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
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