Fiona MacDonald, best known as the host of hit game show It’s a Knockout, has died. She was 67.
The Australian actress and TV personality’s death was announced on Thursday afternoon to social media. MacDonald died after a long battle with motor neurone disease.
The star’s sister Kylie shared a statement on her behalf to her Instagram account.
“Farewell my friends. My sister Kylie is posting this because I have left the building,” the heartbreaking post began.
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“Last night brought an end to a very tough few months. Was very peaceful the boys and Kylie stayed with me to say goodbye.”
“While I’ve never wanted to die, the thought of leaving my tortured body was a relief.”
The star said she had struggle swallowing food and tube feeding was no longer working.
“I have been slowly starving, growing weaker and weaker. I’ve also developed terrible back pain because my muscles aren’t supporting my frame,” she detailed.
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MacDonald said the “black humour” that helped her in the beginning “turned to despair.”
The actress said she decided to stop medical support and go into palliative care.
“When you love life as much as I do, it takes a great deal of courage to make choices that lead to farewell.”
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“So let’s not call it goodbye as I hope to see you again on the other side.”
MacDonald signed off her note with an Irish blessing.
“I carry your love and laughter with me and hope you’ll remember mine,” she concluded.
The comments section was inundated with tributes for the late star.
“What a spectacular human you were here on this planet! I’m sure there is something fabulously entertaining on the other side and you’re just joining in the groove,” Australian artist Cybele Rowe wrote.
MacDonald is best known for her television hosting roles in the 1980s.
The star first appeared on the Australian children series Wombat in the early ’80s.
She then went on to host the 1985 game show It’s a Knockout, an Aussie adaptation of the popular British version. The show ran for four seasons.
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In 2021 the star was diagnosed with motor neurone disease. She had been open about her ongoing health struggle.
Over the last couple of years, MacDonald raised awareness and research funds for MND.
In 2023 she appeared on ABC’s Australian Story, revealing she was losing her speech and ability to walk.
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