Ben Shephard pays emotional tribute as Tipping Point contestant dies before episode makes it to air

BEN Shephard has paid an emotional tribute after a Tipping Point contestant died before their episode made it to the screen.

Ben, 47, took to Twitter as today’s episode began to share the sad news with fans.

Twitter/@benshephard

Ben shared a snap with contestant Rav, who has sadly passed away[/caption]

Posting a picture alongside contestant Rav in front of the Tipping Point machine, Ben wrote: “Since we recorded today’s Tipping Point, Rav’s family have shared the sad news of his passing.

“I loved playing alongside him, and along with all the Tipping Point team we are sending his family and friends all our love.”

Tipping Point fans quickly replied to pay their respects, with one writing: “Always sad to hear of someone passing between the record & the airing.

“Am sure that all of us on the #TippingPoint feed send our condolences to his family & friends. @TippingPointITV.”

Another added: “So sorry to hear that. Looked like a lovely person.”

A third tweeted: “Very sad news. Condolences to all his family and friends.”

Meanwhile a fourth shared: “No way, I’m watching at the minute willing him to win.”

Rav managed to beat his fellow contestants to make it through to the final round.

Rav didn’t have the best success during his final round of questions, and didn’t manage to secure many counters to put into the machine.

The jackpot counter remained on the top deck and trapped between two drops, and so when it came to offering Rav the trade, Ben joked he knew what the answer was going to be.

Rav joked: “I reckon if I had another 18 counters I might just get there.”

He decided to take the £2750 he had won so far, and Ben called him a “cracking competitor.”

Tipping Point airs weekdays at 4pm on ITV.