BBC broadcaster Steve Wright, who hosted programmes on BBC Radio 1 and Radio 2 for over 40 years, died Monday at 69.

Wright’s family confirmed the death to the BBC in a statement yesterday.

“It is with deep sorrow and profound regret that we announce the passing of our beloved Steve Wright,” the family said. “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.”

BBC Director General Tim Davie was among the outpouring of tributes to the late broadcaster, deeming Wright “the ultimate professional — passionate about the craft of radio and deeply in touch with his listeners.”

"No-one had more energy to deliver shows that put a smile on audiences’ faces. They loved him deeply."

Director-General Tim Davie pays tribute to "truly wonderful broadcaster" Steve Wright MBEhttps://t.co/vkxaIwhBRz pic.twitter.com/yMFnkKO9nw

— BBC Press Office (@bbcpress) February 13, 2024

Wright presented shows on Radio 1 and Radio 2 for decades, including most recently his Sunday Love Songs for the latter, which he last hosted over the weekend for a pre-recorded Valentine’s Day special. The presenter also had stints hosting the television show Top of the Pops and the spin-off Top of the Pops 2. His death comes just a month after that of Annie Nightingale, the first female presenter of a BBC Radio 1 programme.

In a statement, BBC Music Director Lorna Clarke called Wright an “extraordinary broadcaster – someone audiences loved, and many of us looked up to.”

“He loved radio, and he loved the BBC, but most of all he loved his audience,” she added. “From Radio 1 to Radio 2, he was with us for more than four decades, and brought so much joy to our airwaves, whatever he was up to. We were privileged to have him with us for all these years.”