In a rare update to Ian Fleming Publication’s website, they respond to the news of John Gardner’s recent passing:

All at Ian Fleming Publications Limited were saddened and shocked to hear of the death of John Gardner on Friday 3rd August.

John was a highly respected and admired member of the Bond family and he will be great[ly] missed.

Our thoughts at this time are with his family.

It seems the mainstream media is just now reporting it.

• The Washington Post
• Stratford Herald
• The Daily Mail