June 3rd 2024.
The devastating news of Rob Burrow's passing has left viewers in tears after his final message was aired in a documentary. The rugby league star, who was diagnosed with MND two years after retiring from the sport, passed away at the age of 41 on Sunday. As tributes poured in for the beloved athlete, fans were left heartbroken by the BBC documentary that aired on Monday night.
Titled "There's Only One Rob Burrow," the special program featured the legend himself, who began with a poignant statement: "I hope one day we find a cure and live in a world free of MND." He then added, "By the time you watch this, I will no longer be here. I am just a lad from Yorkshire who got to live out his dream of playing rugby league."
As the documentary came to a close, Rob's final words were, "As a father of three young children, I would never want any family to have to go through what my family have since my diagnosis. I hope I have left a mark on the disease. I hope it shows to live in the moment. I hope you find inspiration from the whole story. My final message to you is whatever your personal battle, be brave and face it. Every single day is precious. Don't waste a moment. In a world full of adversity, we must still dare to dream. Rob Burrow, over and out."
The heartbreaking documentary also featured messages from Rob's family, including his wife Lindsey. Viewers were left in tears, with one writing, "'By the time you watch this I will no longer be here' - what an absolute killer of an opener. If you plan on catching it on iPlayer, bring the tissues. Absolute inspiration that transcended the game." Another viewer added, "Absolutely inspirational! Was in tears watching this."
The documentary included archive footage, interviews with Rob's teammates and family members, and clips of him throughout his life and career. In a moving tribute released on Monday, his wife Lindsey described him as "loving, kind and caring" and vowed to keep his legacy alive. "I am unbelievably proud of the campaigning he's done to raise awareness and the millions of pounds that have been raised in his name for MND charities," she said.
Despite his diagnosis, Rob continued to raise awareness for MND alongside his former teammate Kevin Sinfield. Together, they helped raise over £15 million for charity to fund research into the disease. In a touching gesture, the groundbreaking of the Rob Burrow Centre for MND at Seacroft Hospital in Leeds went ahead as planned, with Burrow's family saying he "would be looking down and smiling." Sinfield attended the ceremony along with Burrow's parents and sisters.
Rob spent his entire rugby league career with Leeds Rhinos, helping them win eight Super League titles. In recognition of his contributions to the sport and to the MND community, he was made an MBE in 2021 and was promoted to a CBE in 2024.
The documentary, "There's Only One Rob Burrow," is available to watch on BBC iPlayer. If you have a celebrity story, video, or pictures to share, contact the entertainment team through email, phone, or by visiting their Submit Stuff page. They would love to hear from you.
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