Steve Wright’s final radio appearance was just days before his tragic death aged 69.
The legendary broadcaster hosted a pre-recorded Valentine’s Day special of his Sunday Love Songs shows on February 11 , two days before his passing was confirmed by the BBC on Tuesday, February 13.
He kicked off what is now his last-ever broadcast by checking in on listeners, asking: “How is everyone?” and “Is everything working?” before referencing that evening’s Superbowl.
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After reading out several Valentines dedications sent in from fans, Steve ended his two-hour long show by telling listeners: “I’m back for more love songs next Sunday.”
In a statement from 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.”
(Image: PA)
Steve’s Radio 2 colleague Sara Cox was emotional as she announced Steve’s death live on Radio 2. She said: “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.”
(Image: Getty Images)
Since his death was announced, tributes have flooded in from other radio legends. Tony Blackburn wrote: “I am so sad that my dear friend Steve Wright has passed away. He was a great broadcaster and we just loved one another’s company. I was shocked at the news and will miss him terribly.”
Ken Bruce posted a tribute to Steve, where he added: “Totally shocked to hear the news about the great Steve Wright. We were planning lunch to celebrate the award of his richly deserved MBE. An outstanding and innovative broadcaster whose listeners loved him. What a loss to the world of radio.”
(Image: REX)
Eamonn Holmes added: “In a World of Mediocrity …. Steve Wright had talent . He had the voice and the vision and my Sunday mornings will be a lot poorer without him . RIP Steve.”
Tony Blackburn also wrote: “I am so sad that my dear friend Steve Wright has passed away. He was a great broadcaster and we just loved one another’s company. I was shocked at the news and will miss him terribly.”
Meanwhile, Piers Morgan posted: “”RIP Steve Wright, 69. One of Britain’s greatest ever radio broadcasters. A brilliantly creative, funny, warm, intelligent, hard-working & energetic man. Absolutely loved him, on and off air. So sad to hear this news. Thanks for all the wonderful entertainment, Steve.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
