Co-star mourns
BBC Radio DJ Sara Cox is mourning the loss of her co-star.
She told listeners, “It’s really hard to know what to say about the news of Steve Wright’s passing, except we are all absolutely devastated and shocked and blindsided by this news.
“Steve was an extraordinary broadcaster, a really, really. kind person.”
She continued, “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.”
Steve was bullied early in life
The star had been on air for BBC for decades, but he didn’t have an easy start.
Wright was born in Greenwich, London and he attended Eastwood High School in Southend-on-Sea, Essex.
He was cruelly nicknamed Big Nose and Concorde during his time there.
How was Steve’s death announced?
Steve Wright’s 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.”
‘Life won’t be the same without you’
Radio 2 DJ Zoe Ball was devastated by the news, telling her fans: “Wrighty. Our Radio friend, our inspiration, master of broadcasting, the Godfather, a dear friend, always there for us all with support, advice & love & most importantly laughter.
“Rest well you wonderful magic man. Life won’t be the same without you here. Love you my friend my hero x.”
She added: “Thoughts to Steve’s family, his beloved listeners, Tim, Jayney, Bobbi & his team.”
‘A massive loss to broadcasting’
Paddy McGuinness shared his upset, writing: “A massive loss to broadcasting.
“I grew up listening to Steve Wright in the afternoon, a big part of my formative years.
“It was a huge honour for me to appear on his shows. RIP Steve Wright.”
What shows did Steve host?
The veteran DJ presented Steve Wright in the Afternoon for 12 years on Radio 1 and a further 23 years on Radio 2.
Steve also presented the popular Sunday Love Songs mid-morning show on Radio 2.
