Sara Cox Holds Back Tears Announcing Veteran BBC Radio Host Steve Wright’s Death

Radio 2 DJ Sara Cox held back the tears as she delivered the emotional news of the passing of her colleague, veteran BBC radio presenter, Steve Wright who died Tuesday at the age of 69

The news of Wright’s passing was first announced by Cox: “It’s really hard to know what to say about the news of Steve Wright’s passing except that we are all absolutely devastated and shocked and blindsided by this news.”

Wright’s family then released a statement confirming the news: “It is with deep sorrow and profound regret that we announce the passing of our beloved Steve Wright.”

They continued: “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.”

Tributes flooded in for Wright from fans and colleague, expressing their sadness and celebrating the impact that his career, spanning more than four decades, had had.

BBC director general Tim Davie praised Wright as “the ultimate professional” and a “truly wonderful broadcaster.”

Wright, who started as a BBC clerk and became one of the most cherished radio personalities in the country, was recently honoured with an MBE for his work. The host’s creative and pioneering work, particularly with his show Steve Wright in the Afternoon, introduced the “zoo” format to British radio, combining music with spoofs, comedy skits, and various segments.