Kate Garraway’s Heartfelt NTA Win Dedicated to Late Husband Derek Draper
Kate Garraway paid a moving tribute to her late husband Derek Draper after winning Best Authored Documentary at the National Television Awards on 12 September. Her emotional film, Kate Garraway: Derek’s Story, documented Derek’s final year battling long Covid before his death in January at just 56.
Speaking on stage, Kate said, “It’s so strange to be here – this one’s for you Derek, absolutely.” She was joined by her children, Darcey and Billy, whom she praised for their incredible strength facing the first year without their dad.
Hat-Trick Win Highlights Kate’s Powerful Storytelling
This marks Kate’s third consecutive NTA win in the category, following her 2021 and 2022 triumphs for earlier documentaries on Derek’s illness and struggles with the UK care system.
The documentary struck a chord nationwide by revealing the harsh realities carers face. Kate used her speech to call for urgent support improvements, stating: “We need a system which catches us when we fall, not catches us out… I’m going to keep the fight on for all of you.”
Championing Carers Across the UK
In the winners’ room, Kate reflected on public response to the film. “Everybody knows somebody who needs care of one sort or another,” she said. “If they don’t now, they will do. Hopefully it’s given those people a bit of a voice.”
She praised professional carers for extending Derek’s life “many, many times,” calling their work priceless for her family.
Kate also shone a light on unpaid carers — the “unsung, wonderful heroes” who face daily struggles without enough support. She hopes her documentary will push politicians to make caring a top priority. “That would be lovely wouldn’t it? There’s probably will on all political sides. If we come together, it will happen.”
Bittersweet Victory for Kate and Family
Reflecting on the bittersweet night, Kate said Derek would have been proud of the recognition and impact. While sad he couldn’t be there, she was grateful to have her children by her side — the whole “Draper gang” — carrying Derek’s legacy forward.
Kate Garraway’s brave documentary has sparked vital conversation on caregiving and earned her widespread praise for shining a spotlight on this pressing issue.
