Meet Alan Farthing: The Former Fiance of the Late Jill Dando

Netflix Documentary Explores Unsolved Murder of Journalist Jill Dando

Introduction

Netflix is set to release a new true-crime documentary titled “Who Killed Jill Dando?” which delves into the unsolved murder of British journalist Jill Dando. Dando, known for her work on BBC programs such as Crimewatch and Breakfast Time, was shot dead on her doorstep in Fulham in 1999. Directed by Marcus Plowright, the three-part series aims to shed new light on the case, which remains a mystery even 25 years later.

Who is Alan Farthing?

Alan Farthing, a gynaecologist-surgeon, was Dando’s former fiancé at the time of her tragic death. Born on June 8, 1963, in Winchester, Hampshire, Farthing is known for his expertise in complex surgery. After qualifying as a doctor in 1986 from George’s Hospital Medical School, he worked at several hospitals before training in Perth and Sydney, Australia. Farthing gained recognition for his pioneering use of laparoscopic surgery in the treatment of cancer patients. He currently serves as the Head of Department at the Gynaecological Cancer at Imperial College Hospitals NHS Trust and maintains a private practice on Harley Street. Additionally, Farthing works as a consultant at Queen Charlotte’s Hospital and St Mary’s Hospital.

Alan Farthing and the Royal Family

Farthing’s association with the Royal Family adds an intriguing element to his background. He was appointed the late Queen Elizabeth II’s surgeon-gynaecologist in 2008, succeeding Sir Marcus Setchell. Setchell had previously played a vital role in the Duchess of Cornwall’s hysterectomy and the delivery of the Earl and Countess of Wessex’s children. Farthing retired from this position in 2013, and during his tenure, he assisted other members of the Royal Family with their medical needs. In recognition of his services to the Royal Household, Farthing was appointed Commander of the Royal Victorian Order in the 2023 Birthday Honours.

Alan Farthing’s Role in Kate Middleton’s Births

Farthing played a significant role in overseeing the births of Kate Middleton’s three children. For the birth of Prince George in 2013, Farthing worked alongside Sir Marcus Setchell and obstetrician Guy Thorpe-Beeston at the Lindo Wing of St Mary’s Hospital. When Princess Charlotte was born in 2015, Farthing had taken over Setchell’s role, and he and Thorpe-Beeston worked together for the delivery. The medical team reunited three years later for the birth of Prince Louis.

Relationship with Jill Dando

Farthing’s relationship with Jill Dando began in 1997 when they were introduced by a mutual friend. The couple became engaged in January 1999, and they were set to marry in September of that year. Tragically, Dando was shot and killed outside her home in April 1999, just months before their intended wedding. In a BBC interview following Dando’s death, Farthing expressed his devastation and described her as a beautiful, caring, and well-meaning person.

The Unsolved Murder of Jill Dando

Jill Dando’s murder sent shockwaves through the United Kingdom, and the case captivated the nation. She was shot and killed by a single bullet to the head as she reached her front door in Fulham. The incident occurred at approximately 11:32 am, and Dando is believed to have died instantly. Despite extensive investigations involving 1,393 potential suspects and analyzing 500 hours of CCTV footage, the case remains unsolved. The investigation even led to the wrongful conviction of Barry George, who spent seven years in prison before being acquitted in a second trial in 2008.

“Who Killed Jill Dando?” Documentary

The upcoming Netflix documentary series, “Who Killed Jill Dando?”, provides a fresh look at this notorious unsolved murder. The series, airing almost 25 years after Dando’s death and on the day after her intended wedding date with Alan Farthing, aims to uncover new information about the case. Dando’s brother, Nigel Dando, who initially believed his sister’s killer would be swiftly found, is interviewed and expresses hope that the release of the documentary will lead to fresh leads. The three-part series is set to be available for streaming on September 26, 2023.

Conclusion

The case of Jill Dando’s unsolved murder remains a haunting mystery in British criminal history. With the release of the upcoming Netflix documentary, viewers hope to gain insight into the events leading up to her death and potentially uncover new information about the killer. While the investigation has spanned over two decades and yielded no conclusive answers, the dedication to pursuing justice for Dando’s tragic end serves as a testament to the impact she made in the world of journalism and as a beloved figure.