13 February 2024 , 21:15
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Steve Wright had lamented over the fact he had been let feeling unwanted in footage that has resurfaced in light of his shock death.
The legendary radio host enjoyed a 40-year long career at the BBC where he worked on both Radio One and BBC Radio 2 - and he also hosted occasional TV shows. On Tuesday, his heartbroken family announced that he had passed away at the age of 69 - sparking a wave of tributes from fans and former colleagues.
Radio fans were stunned in 2022 when Steve was sacked from his Afternoon Show slot - bringing to an end his much loved show. Following the news that his time on air would be coming to a close, Steve was asked how he was feeling.
He said at the time: "Sometimes people want you, sometimes they don't. Sometimes there are changes and they give you another offer - and that's OK. I understand that, I really understand that."
Footage of Steve Wright discussing the end of his radio career has resurfaced (BBC)He continued: "I've been offered loads of stuff at the BBC and I'm staying at Radio 2. What it actually means for me is rather than working six days a week, I'll be working maybe two and a half days a week. So maybe I can get lunch, maybe I can have a rest, whatever, for a little while."
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He'd also said on air at the time: "Before we start the show proper, if I may, I'd just like to say thank you ever so much for all the messages that have come in, over the weekend after I announced on Friday on the afternoon that we are leaving the Afternoon Show."
On Tuesday, radio fans were devastated to learn of Steve’s passing. His death was announced in a statement shared by his family, which 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."
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Tributes have been pouring out since his death was reported - with some former BBC Radio 2 ex-colleagues learning of his passing while on air. Sara Cox was heartbroken by the news and struggled to remain composed while hosting her show in the late afternoon.
Fellow DJ Zoe Ball shared a tribute, saying: "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."
Tim Davie, BBC Director General, issued a statement, adding: "All of us at the BBC are heartbroken to hear this terribly sad news. 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."
Steve began working on BBC Radio in 1980, hosting a Saturday evening slot on BBC Radio 1. He stayed at the station until 1995 - having worked his way to presenting The Radio 1 Breakfast Show. He then moved to BBC Radio 2 in 1996 with his final Steve Wright in the Afternoon show airing in September 2022. He continued to helm radio series including Sunday Love Songs and Pick Of The Pops.