England football commentator Sam Matterface shared devastating personal news with listeners during a live broadcast on Monday morning.
The 47-year-old commentator revealed that his father had passed away on Good Friday in circumstances he described as sudden and shocking.
Presenting on talkSPORT alongside journalist Alex Crook, Matterface delivered an emotional two-minute address to the nation, explaining why he had chosen to return to the airwaves just four days after losing his father.
The broadcaster said his dad would have made the same decision, noting that it was his father who first sparked his passion for radio.
Matterface was candid with his audience from the outset, stating: “I’m going to be honest and open with you right off the bat, I’m not in a particularly good place this morning and I’m going to share with you why.”
He continued: “It’s been a particularly tough weekend for me and my family because we lost my father on Friday night in sudden and rather shocking circumstances.
“So you’re going to have to bare with me a little today and indulge me a little me for a minute.”
Sam Matterface usually commentates on England football matches
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Matterface’s father, affectionately known as “Little Pete” by Breakfast Show host Alan Brazil, had a deep affection for the station and its presenters.
“Little Pete – as Alan Brazil affectionately nicknamed him on the Breakfast Show – loved Alan, loved talkSPORT and loved radio,” Matterface explained.
Addressing why he had returned to work so soon after such a profound loss, the commentator offered two reasons: “But the truth is, one he would have done the same and the other reason is that it is important.”
Sam Matterface has returned to work just four days after losing his father
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He acknowledged that many listeners would understand his position, having faced similar circumstances whilst working or driving through periods of grief.
Matterface spoke movingly about the role radio played in his father’s life, describing it as a constant companion that accompanied the painter and decorator wherever his work took him.
“He introduced me to radio my dad, and as a painter and decorator it went with him everywhere that he went,” the commentator reflected.
His father took immense pride in his son’s position at what he considered his favourite station.
“He loved the fact I was on talkSPORT, his favourite radio station,” he stated.
“Radio was his friend, I hope it’s your friend.
“And it’s thanks to him that it has always been my friend.”
He also said that he hoped the medium would bring comfort to his brother, sister and stepmother during this difficult time.
