Steve Wright, BBC Radio presenter, has died | UK News
DJ Steve Wright, a presenter on BBC radio stations, has died.
Wright, who was 69, presented for BBC Radio 1 and Radio 2 for more than four decades.
He was last on air hosting a pre-recorded Valentine’s show on Sunday, the BBC said, and died on Monday.
Paying tribute, his family said in a statement: “It is with deep sorrow and profound regret that we announce the passing of our beloved Steve Wright.
“In addition to his son, Tom, and daughter, Lucy, Steve leaves behind his brother, Laurence and his father Richard. Also, much-loved close friends and colleagues, and millions of devoted radio listeners who had the good fortune and great pleasure of allowing Steve into their daily lives as one of the UK’s most enduring and popular radio personalities.”
Bosses at the BBC also paid tribute, with Lorna Clarke, director of music, describing Wright as “an extraordinary broadcaster – someone audiences loved, and many of us looked up to”.
She continued: “He loved radio, and he loved the BBC, but most of all… he loved his audience. From Radio 1 to Radio 2, he was with us for more than four decades, and brought so much joy to our airwaves, whatever he was up to. We were privileged to have him with us for all these years.”
(L-R): Wright, production assistant Dianne Oxberry, and Paul McCartney. Pic: PA
BBC director-general Tim Davie said staff were “heartbroken” to hear of Wright’s death, which comes just weeks after he was made an MBE for services to radio.
“Steve was a truly wonderful broadcaster who has been a huge part of so many of our lives over many decades,” Mr Davie said. “He was the ultimate professional – passionate about the craft of radio and deeply in touch with his listeners.
“This was deservedly recognised in the New Year Honours list with his MBE for services to radio. No one had more energy to deliver shows that put a smile on audiences’ faces. They loved him deeply. We are thinking of Steve and his family and will miss him terribly.”
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