Blankety Blank viewers 'in shock' as it's revealed winning contestant has died
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Blankety Blank fans were left reeling after the show's recent Saturday night episode ended with the poignant revelation that the victorious contestant, Nathanael Hill, had passed away since the episode was recorded.
Nathanael Hill, featured on the BBC One quiz show hosted by Bradley Walsh, was seen clinching the star prize in the broadcast.
Yet following the rolling credits, a touching tribute appeared on screen with the words 'Nathanael Hill 1985 - 2025. '.
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Shock spread among viewers who took to social media platforms to express their grief upon discovering Nathaneal had sadly passed away.
On X, previously known as Twitter, @Johnboy_Cook mourned: "Wow. That's so sad. RIP Nathaneal.", reports the Manchester Evening News.
while @Di2409 shared: "RIP Nathaneal fly high."
@lovelybones2013 lamented: "Oh that's sad... RIP Nathaniel" and @dazfromsomerset observed: "Oh sad he passed away young."
Hailing from Kirby in Merseyside, Nathanael's demise occurred in April 2025, reports the Liverpool Echo.
In his life, he served as an armour officer with the Royal Air Force, seeing action through six tours of Iraq and four of Afghanistan, as well as participating in Operation Red Flag.
On a mission in south-central Asia at 39, Nathanael sustained injuries from shrapnel caused by a roadside bomb that went off remotely, which ultimately led to his medical discharge.
Following his departure from service, it was four years later that Nathanael faced a diagnosis of late-onset type 1 diabetes, with doctors also discovering a blood clot in his leg amid the Covid-19 pandemic—complications that impeded the full recovery of his leg.
Following three bouts of sepsis, Nathanael made the difficult decision to undergo an above-knee amputation.
Upon news of his passing in April, numerous tributes poured in to honour Nathanael's memory. Liverpool Tritons RUFC shared a heartfelt tribute, stating: "It is with deep sadness that Liverpool Tritons RUFC announces the passing of our dear friend, former player, and coach, Nathanael Hill – known to many simply as Nate."
As a valued member of the Tritons for several years, Nathanael was admired for his skills on the pitch and his unwavering dedication as a coach. He brought immense passion and enthusiasm to the sport, playing a pivotal role in shaping the club's inclusive rugby community.
The tribute continued: "More than his achievements in the game, Nate will be remembered for his kindness, sense of humour, and the unwavering support he showed to teammates, new players, and friends alike. His loss will be felt deeply across the club and far beyond."
Nathanael's friend, Simon Bartley, remembered him fondly, saying: "His friends will remember him as someone with a big heart, always willing to offer support to anyone. A shining light has dimmed with the loss of Nate, we have lost a champion for inclusion and a great friend to so many."
Prior to his passing, Nathanael had begun a fundraising campaign to support his ambitious goal of securing a gold medal for Team GB at the 2028 LA Paralympics.
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