Michael Baggott, the beloved star of BBC's Flog It!, has passed away at the age of 51 after suffering a heart attack, as announced through his social media. His death follows significant health struggles including a stroke last October, which had left him hospitalized and bedbound for several weeks. A statement posted on his social media account read, 'Heartbroken to share Michael died yesterday in hospital. He was a dearly loved son, brother, nephew and uncle who will be deeply and profusely missed. There will be a memorial service...'
Fans worried about Baggott's well-being when he shared harrowing updates from his hospital bed. He revealed on his social media account the alarming conditions he faced, complaining of extreme dehydration and inadequate care during his time at Good Hope Hospital. He recorded distressing clips expressing: 'It's been a week now and I've been able to take fluids for two days. I was left without any water at all and have become badly dehydrated.' He described gaps of up to 17 hours without water, adding, 'I'm dying of thirst in a British NHS hospital and no one seems prepared to do anything about it.'
Many supporters and fellow industry professionals expressed their condolences upon hearing of his death. Flog It! expert Nick Hall tweeted, 'So sorry to hear this. Michael was a true connoisseur and ambassador of the antiques world, generous with his knowledge.' Others joined the outpouring of grief, emphasizing Baggott's vast contributions to the antiques community and his humorous spirit.
Baggott's career was marked by his expertise in antique silver, smallwork, and early spoons. He had previously worked with Christie’s during his university years, later becoming head of Sotheby’s southern silver department before making waves on Flog It!. His appearance on the show starting 2004 made him one of its recognizable faces for over 17 years, where he showcased his knowledge to viewers across the country.
Before his hospitalization, Baggott remained active on social media, sharing anecdotes and critiques related to the antique world. Just weeks before his death, he humorously remarked on episodes of Antiques Roadshow, maintaining his engagement with fans. Shockingly, one of his most recent posts from December 29 critiqued perceived inaccuracies from experts on the show. This blend of humorous commentary and genuine concern for his health kept fans hopeful for his recovery.
Unfortunately, the deterioration of Baggott's health brought to the forefront serious concerns surrounding the UK’s National Health Service. Reports of NHS struggles have surfaced, highlighting the inadequacies faced by patients, which Baggott himself experienced during his hospital stay. The British health system has been under scrutiny for unacceptable conditions, particularly during high-volume seasons.
Baggott's distressing updates pointed to issues of overworked hospital staff, who he claimed were eager to help but constrained by system failures. He expressed his gratitude for junior medical staff, stating, 'All the staff are busting their gut to help you, the management and the senior surgeons are not.'
After joining Flog It!, Baggott quickly became synonymous with the show, leveraging his expertise to educate viewers about antiques. Despite the show’s cancellation in 2018, his impact on the antiques community remained strong, with many professionals and fans speaking fondly of his sharp intellect and generous spirit.
Significantly, there was concern about rumors surrounding his health late last year. He fell victim to death hoaxes, firmly rebutting claims of his passing, only to tragically confirm his condition months later through his updates.
The antique community now mourns the loss of one of its brightest stars, with tributes flooding social media as friends and fans recall their cherished memories of Baggott. His legacy as 'a giant of the antique industry' will surely be remembered. A memorial service is expected to be announced soon, allowing many to gather and pay their respects to this unique individual whose contribution to the field will be sorely missed.