Renowned TV Producer Nicky Illis Passes Away at 53

Renowned television producer and director Nicky Illis, known for her work on the ever-popular show ‘Fake or Fortune’, has tragically passed away at the age of 53.

Illis, who embarked on her career after studying at the University of Glasgow and forging a path through London‘s television industry, left an indelible mark on historical and investigative programming.

Her journey began with directing history programs like ‘One Foot In The Past‘ and ‘The House Detectives‘, showcasing a keen eye for unraveling mysteries from the past.

During her time at the BBC in London in the 1990s and 2000s, Illis curated numerous films for the acclaimed BBC1 series ‘Omnibus’, covering a wide array of topics from the magic of ‘Harry Potter‘ to the allure of ‘The Great Gatsby‘ with notable figures like Jay McInerney and Hunter S. Thompson.

One of her notable accomplishments was ‘A Picture of Britain’, hosted by David Dimbleby, which delved into the intersection of landscapes and art, followed by the equally successful ‘How We Built Britain’.

In 2009, a pivotal moment arrived when Illis, now based in Bristol, played a key role in the development of the investigative art series ‘Fake or Fortune’ alongside executive producer Simon Shaw and art expert Philip Mould.

The first episode aired in 2011, captivating audiences with its blend of in-depth research, scientific analysis, and revelations from the art world, often leading to thought-provoking conclusions.

Through ten gripping series, Illis crafted numerous episodes, spotlighting artists like Turner, Constable, Vuillard, Henry Moore, and William and Ben Nicholson, each shedding light on the blurred lines between authenticity and deception in the art realm.

One particular episode investigating a painting attributed to Renoir drew an unparalleled audience of almost 6 million, a testament to Illis’s ability to captivate viewers with enthralling storytelling.

Illis’s dedication to storytelling shone through in every episode, including one on Turner that resulted in the reinstatement of several of his paintings at the National Museum of Wales, cementing her legacy in the art world.

Earlier this year, despite battling illness, Illis continued her creative journey, directing a new ‘Fake or Fortune’ episode with stalwart presenters Philip Mould and Fiona Bruce, a collaboration that highlighted her unwavering commitment to her craft.

Fiona Bruce fondly remembered Illis’s impact, describing her as ‘irreplaceable’, not only for her talent but also for her infectious enthusiasm and spirited demeanor that endeared her to everyone on the team.

Nicky Illis leaves behind her husband Seb and their children Luke and Eliza, a family touched by her creativity, passion, and indomitable spirit.