14 February 2024 , 13:46
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Steve Wright's last conversation at the BBC has been revealed as one of his colleagues claims the star was "struggling with his health", according to reports.
The death of the iconic Radio 2 DJ, who presented Steve Wright in the Afternoon for 12 years on Radio 1 and a further 23 years on Radio 2, has shocked his fans and BBC colleagues alike, with stars including Sara Cox and Zoe Ball paying tribute to the father of two.
It has since been reported Steve had reached out to show bosses in a final chat over the last few days about his health. "Steve had been talking to Radio 2 bosses just two or three days ago," one BBC star claimed.
Steve Wright's tragic death has shocked his BBC colleagues (Mike Webster/REX/Shutterstock)
The star presented Steve Wright in the Afternoon for 12 years on Radio 1 and a further 23 years on Radio 2 (PA)They continued: "We were aware he was struggling with his health a bit but nothing that seemed this serious. It has come as a huge shock. Nobody can believe it. He was engaging with his colleagues so recently. It doesn't seem at all real," reports the Daily Mail. The Mirror has contacted the BBC for comment.
Steve took over as presenter of the long-running Pick of the Pops late last year. That came after his departure from the mid-afternoon show after 23 years.
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On his final Radio 2 afternoon show in 2022, he summed up his tenure, saying: "I've tried on this programme to bring just a little bit of light relief, a good genuine atmosphere, uplifting tunes, good conversation, a little bit of satire. I've tried to make the show unique and just be good company. I can only hope that we've done that some of the time."
Steve's family shared the devastating news of his death on Tuesday, 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.
Radio 2 DJ Jo Whiley joined Steve's colleagues and fans as she paid tribute to the DJ, adding it was "very strange" to be talking about Steve's death on her show given she had seen him "days ago". Meanwhile Ken Bruce, who also worked with Steve at Radio 2 claimed he was planning a lunch with him to celebrate his "richly deserved MBE". Steve was made an MBE in the New Year's Honours list at the start of 2024.
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The BBC Radio 2 stalwart made his final appearance for the broadcaster on Sunday where he hosted a pre-recorded Valentine's Day special of his Sunday Love Songs special. This aired just two days before his death was announced by his family.
During his final broadcast, Steve asked his dedicated listeners: "How is everyone? Is everything working?" He signed off his final show with a heartbreaking promise that he was unable to keep.
"I'm back for more love songs next Sunday. Ta-ra then," Steve said. The broadcaster has confirmed plans to celebrate the BBC Radio 2 stalwart's life with a range of programming across the station.