13 February 2024 , 18:26
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Fans are in mourning over the death of iconic DJ, Steve Wright, who has sadly passed away at the age of 69.
In a statement, Steve's family shared the devastating news, announcing: "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." No cause of death has been given.
Steve- who is rumoured to have been allergic to feathers and penicillin - once candidly opened up about his impressive weight loss, revealing how he worked tirelessly to lose several stones after seeing an unflattering picture of himself.
Steve Wright has died at the age of 69 (gavin rodgers/pixel8000)During an episode of BBC Breakfast in 2009, Steve stated: "I've been trying to lose weight for the last 10 years. As you get older, it's important to be healthy and it is a little dangerous to be overweight. I am a couple of stones over, so I'm about to go on a regime."
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A year later, Steve, who was 18 stone at his heaviest, revealed he had already lost more than one-and-a-half stone and was intent on reaching his goal weight of 12 or 13 stone.
Steve Wright was a beloved star of Radio 2 (PA)
The broadcaster shared his weight-loss journey with fans (GC Images)Speaking with the Mail Online at the time, Steve revealed: "I've been eating healthily and I've lost about one-and-a-half stone. But I want to lose another stone-and-a-half at least. I'm not there yet but I’m getting there. I’ve cut out chips, crisps and I no longer eat chocolate."
Meanwhile, those who worked with the star have rushed to pay tribute. An emotional Sara Cox announced Steve's death during her BBC Radio 2 afternoon show, paying tribute to a 'warm' and 'witty' broadcaster. 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."
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In another emotional statement, BBC director general Tim Davie said that all those at the BBC had been left 'heartbroken' after learning of the 'terribly sad news'. He continued: "Steve was a truly wonderful broadcaster who has been a huge part of so many of our lives over many decades. 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."