Steve Wright, legendary BBC Radio DJ, dies aged 69

BBC Radio 2 DJ Steve Wright has died aged 69. 

One of the BBC's best-known presenters, Wright presented programmes on both BBC Radio 1 and BBC Radio 2 for more than four decades was best known for his afternoon shows, and was also a presenter on Top of the Pops.

In a statement, his family said: "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.

"As we all grieve, the family requests privacy at this immensely difficult time."

After his death was announced, BBC Radio 2 DJ Sara Cox was visibly emotional as she paid tribute to "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."

Joining the BBC in the 1970s, Wright first joined BBC Radio 1 before the defining show of his career, Steve Wright in the Afternoon, began in 1981. 

Across his career at the Beeb, Wright briefly hosted BBC Radio 1's iconic Breakfast show for a year in 1994, his afternoon show moved to BBC Radio 2 in 1999, a slot it would keep until 2022.

Wright was last on the air on Sunday (February 11), hosting a pre-recorded special Valentine's Day edition of his Love Songs show.

Following the announcement of his death, BBC Radio 2 has announced that it will pay tribute to Wright across a series of programmes.

Image: Chris Jackson/Getty Images