Former Wales rugby union captain and legendary broadcaster and commentator Eddie Butler has died at the age of 65.
After rising to prominence with club side Pontypool, Butler played 16 times for Wales between 1980 and 1984, captaining the side on six occasions and scoring two tries.
The number eight was called up to the British and Irish Lions squad that toured New Zealand in 1983.
After retirement he became a respected rugby broadcaster.
Butler died in his sleep on a charity trek in Peru.
Current BBC director-general Tim Davie paid tribute to “a wonderful wordsmith” who had shaped so much of the organisation’s output.
“Everyone at the BBC is shocked and saddened by this very sad news,” Davie said. “Eddie was a brilliantly gifted commentator, writer and reporter whose passion for the game of rugby union shone through every broadcast.
“A wonderful wordsmith with a rich, iconic voice, he provided the definitive soundtrack to some of the greatest moments in rugby’s history. He will be much missed by all of us and our thoughts are with his family at this sad time.”
Tributes:
Stunned at the news and passing of Eddie Butler. Thoughts with his family. What an amazing contribution to rugby and broadcasting. A privilege to have played and co-commentated with his voice. RIP Eddie
pic.twitter.com/AEMGSXKdhG
— Sam Warburton (@samwarburton_) September 15, 2022
Eddie Butler. One of a kind. RIP legend
— Jamie Roberts (@Jamiehuwroberts) September 15, 2022
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