Topic: Film Critic Barry Norman dies

[Simon]

Film critic Barry Norman has died aged 83, his family says.

The journalist and former BBC presenter died in his sleep on Friday night.

A statement from his daughters, Samantha and Emma, called him "remarkable", adding: "He had a great life, a wonderful marriage and an enviable career."

Norman hosted BBC One's "Film…" show between 1972 and 1998 - its longest running host - as well as writing for the Daily Mail and the Guardian.

His literary agent, Curtis Brown, described him as "the defining voice of film criticism and insightful interviewing of screen legends from both sides of the camera".

Norman's daughters added: "He leaves behind a family who adore him and a great roster of friends who love him too. We will miss him more than we can say."

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-40468411

[Clive]

I was very surprised that the BBC dropped him owing to him being "too old".  He seemed at the height of his popularity and was immediately snapped up by a rival channel leaving the BBC with Gavin Essler and some other guy who were far less knowledgeable and had no charisma.

[Simon]

And was replaced by the BBC by the awful Claudia Winkleman!   

[Clive]

She is one of my pet hates - a complete waste of space.  I watch Strictly where she is a presenter and I just don't see the point of her.  You have really touched on a raw nerve now Simon!   

[Simon]

I don't know what possessed the BBC to think she could ever be a good replacement for Barry Norman.  I was a regular viewer of the Film... series, but never watched it again after she took it over.