Steve Wright’s Poignant Pledge to BBC Radio 2 Audience in His Last Show Before Passing

 

Steve Wright made a commitment to his audience that, regrettably, he couldn’t fulfil.

On his last day at BBC Radio 2, he presented a pre-recorded Valentine’s Day edition of his beloved Sunday Love Songs, which went out just two days before the sad news of his passing was shared by his family.

In what became his final broadcast, Steve reached out to his loyal listeners, questioning, “How is everyone? Is everything working?” His closing words on the show were a poignant promise that ultimately went unfulfilled.

“I’m back for more love songs next Sunday. Ta-ra then,” were Steve’s parting words. Following this, the broadcaster has announced its intention to honour the life of the BBC Radio 2 icon with a series of special programmes.

The family of Steve Wright released a heartfelt statement confirming his passing, expressing their profound sorrow and regret. Steve leaves behind a loving family, including his son Tom, daughter Lucy, brother Laurence, and father Richard.

In addition to his family, Steve was cherished by numerous close friends and colleagues, along with millions of dedicated radio listeners. His role as one of the UK’s most beloved radio personalities allowed him to become a daily presence in the lives of many. During this period of mourning, the family has asked for privacy.

Details regarding the cause of Steve’s death have yet to be disclosed. Following the announcement, an outpouring of tributes came from the Radio 2 community. Ken Bruce, a former colleague of Steve’s, hailed him as an “outstanding and innovative broadcaster”. Meanwhile, Sara Cox, another Radio 2 host, found it difficult to contain her emotions as she relayed the sad news on air.

Fellow Radio 2 stalwart Tony Blackburn expressed his profound sadness at the passing of his dear friend Steve Wright. He described Wright as a great broadcaster and reminisced about the cherished moments they shared together. Blackburn was shocked by the news and expressed his deep sense of loss, stating that he would miss Wright terribly.

Zoe Ball, also from Radio 2, bid farewell to Steve Wright, referring to him as a “wonderful magic man” and wishing him to rest well following his death at the age of 69.

Steve Wright boasted a multitude of celebrity admirers, including Eamonn Holmes, Richard Hammond, Matt Lucas, and Dame Esther Rantzen, all of whom paid tribute to him in the wake of his passing.

Tim Davie, the BBC Director General, expressed the collective sorrow of the BBC staff upon hearing the tragic news. Davie described Steve Wright as a truly exceptional broadcaster who had touched the lives of many over several decades. He highlighted Wright’s passion for radio and his profound connection with his audience. Davie acknowledged Wright’s dedication to his craft, citing his recent recognition in the New Year Honours list with an MBE for services to radio. Davie emphasized Wright’s unparalleled energy in delivering shows that brought joy to audiences and underscored the deep affection they held for him. The BBC Director General concluded by expressing thoughts for Steve and his family, expressing the profound impact his loss would have on all who knew him.