Publicist had charted her cancer experiences on a podcast

Entertainment publicist Katie Phillips – who has represented clients including Ricky Gervais, Omid Djalili and James Acaster  over the years – has died at the age of 46.

She was diagnosed with thyroid cancer in 2022 and shared her experience of the disease though her podcast Talking With Cancer, which she presented with journalist Clair Whitefield.

She died yesterday after some weeks spent back in hospital.

A spokesperson for KPPR, the agency which she founded in 2011, said: ‘We will forever be astounded by the consistently positive and forward-thinking way that Katie decided to approach her illness. Not least by setting up her wonderful podcast.  As so many people have already said about Katie, she was the bravest person we knew. 

‘She was, quite simply, a brilliant publicist and boss. Assertive and uncompromising, whilst at all times kind, funny and empathetic. She has left a lasting impact on the comedy and entertainment industry, and all who worked with her closely for so many years.

It is a very sad day for us here at KPPR, but her name and legacy will be the beating heart of everything that we continue to do. We learnt from the best and we are so very proud of her.

All of our thoughts are with her husband Dinc, step-daughter Alara, family and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time. She will be so greatly missed by all.’

Phillips started her career in the early 2000s as part of the Pleasance press office at the Edinburgh Fringe, she went on to work for The Sarah Mitchell Partnership and The PR Office, before founding her own agency.

The company has also represented Ross Noble, Nina Conti and Julian Clary, as well as the BBC show Have I Got News For You

KPPR suggests The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity and Maggie's for anyone who wants to make a donation in her memory.

Published: 28 Nov 2024