John Richard Whiteley was an English presenter and journalist, best known for his 23 years as host of the game show Countdown. Countdown was the launch programme for Channel 4 at 4:45 pm on 2 November 1982, and Whiteley was the first person to be seen on the channel. Whiteley enjoyed projecting the image of an absent-minded eccentric. His trademarks were his jolly, avuncular manner, his fondness for puns, and his bold, sometimes garish wardrobe.
Richard Whiteley, English journalist and game show host (born 1943)
On June 26, in the year 2005, Richard Whiteley, English journalist and game show host (born 1943). This event is recorded as a Notable Deaths event in the history of June 26, a notable event in this corner of history.
1 notable person is associated with this event, including Richard Whiteley. Learn more below.
Key Facts
- This event took place on June 26, 2005 (AD era).
- It is categorised as a Notable Deaths event in recorded history.
- Referenced in 1 Wikipedia article.
- 1 notable person is recorded as involved in or associated with this event.
- Wikipedia source last updated on 15 June 2026.
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This article draws on content from Wikipedia, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
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