Charlotte Lord
Legendary radio DJ Steve Wright has tragically died aged 69.
Wright was best known for presenting programmes for BBC Radio 1 and Radio 2 during his four-decade-long career.
He also fronted TV programmes such as Top of the Pops.
Last year, Wright took over from Paul Gambaccini as presenter for Radio 2’s Saturday afternoon’s Pick of the Pops.
Sadly, it has now been confirmed that the legendary radio DJ has passed away.
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His family confirmed his passing this afternoon ‘with deep sorry and profound regret’ in a heartbreaking statement.
“In addition to his son, Tom, and daughter, Lucy, Steve leaves behind his brother, Laurence and his father Richard,” it reads (via BBC).
“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.
“As we all grieve, the family requests privacy at this immensely difficult time.”
Following the heartbreaking news, presenter Jeremy Vine told the BBC that the ‘Radio 2 family are in mourning’, adding: “He was such an incredible professional… a lovely man.
“He was so encouraging to the next generation of presenters like me. He was so generous with his time. He was such a huge figure in British radio. That cheerful voice is gone, and there are so many people who will feel his loss.”
Tributes have also been pouring in for the beloved DJ since the sad news was announced.
An emotional Sara Cox said on her show: “It’s really hard to know what to say about the news of Steve Wright’s passing, except we are all shocked and devastated and blindsided by this news.
“Steve was an extraordinary broadcaster, a really kind person, he was witty, he was warm, and he was a huge, huge part of the Radio 2 family, and I know my fellow DJs will all be absolutely shattered too.”
DJ Scott Mills wrote: “He made everything sound effortless, and worked so hard to make every show world-class. He was a constant inspiration to me on how to do radio that sounded big.”
While Jonathon Ross described Wright as ‘warm, generous and great to spend time with’.
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Wright was last heard on air on Sunday, hosting a pre-recorded Valentine’s Day edition of his much-loved Love Songs programme.
He told listeners in his final sign-off on air: “I’ll be back for more love songs next Sunday, ta-ra then.”
The DJ reportedly passed away on Monday.
At the time of writing, Wright’s cause of death has yet to be confirmed.
Wright is survived by his dad Richard, his brother Laurence and his children Tom and Lucy.
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