Renowned sports journalist and motorsport enthusiast and commentator Sean Cardiovillis has breathed his last.
His death on Saturday sent shockwaves across the sports industry in Kenya.
Though his employer, Capital FM, did not comment on the circumstances surrounding his death, several news outlets reported that he was found dead on Saturday, September 9, at the staircase of his apartment, by a cleaner along Rhapta Road, Westlands.
His employer paid a tribute to him on their news website www.capitalfm.co.ke saying, “We are deeply saddened to announce that the world of sports has lost one of its most iconic voices—Sean Cardovillis.
“The renowned sports commentator who worked here at Capital FM passed away this morning at his house in Westlands, and his family has been informed.
Sean’s powerful commentary and infectious enthusiasm for sports made him a household name locally and internationally.
At Capital FM, we pay tribute to the man who brought sports to life for millions of our listeners around the world. Cardovillis was a Sports News Presenter and premiered the popular Saturday Music and Sports show.
His last interview was with multiple World Champion Faith Kipyegon, which is scheduled to air in today’s show. Once again, we pass our condolences to the family, colleagues, friends and our listeners following this devastating report,” his employer said.
Sean was highly respected amongst his peers, more so for his deep understanding and knowledge of motorsport. During this year’s WRC Safari Rally Championship in Naivasha, he interviewed President William Ruto, getting the Head of State to comment on Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria’s controversial remarks regarding the media, an interview that went viral, and widely used by legacy and New Media.
Besides his knack for motorsport reporting, Sean was a pure writer, but will mainly be remembered for his searing voice on the radio airwaves which he commanded for ages.
He particularly had a love affair with Capital FM, working for the broadcaster in three different stints, spanning decades.
At one time he worked for Nation FM, owned by the Nation Media Group, and here, his work-ethic shone through. His love for sports was unbridled.
In the last four years, Sean also struggled with ill-health, and was in and out of hospital, but won the battle to return to what he loved the most: sports journalism, before the cruel hand of them struck when least expected.