A BBC Radio 2 legend who tragically died had been on air just days ago sharing his favourite love songs.
Steve Wright passed away aged 69, his heartbroken family announced today.
Veteran presenter Steven Wright has tragically diedWright, pictured in 1980, had been on air for decadesCredit: RexHis heartbroken family today announced his deathCredit: GettyThe star was last photographed after he was axed from his show in 2022Credit: BBCThe veteran disc jockey presented the Afternoon Show for 12 years on Radio 1 and a further 23 years on Radio 2.
His last show was on Sunday, as he pre-recorded a Valentine's Day special of his Love Songs programme.
There, Wright shared his favourite romantic tunes.
R&B star Anita Pointer of The Pointer Sisters dies aged 74During the show the legend signed off saying: "I'll be back for more love songs next Sunday.
"Ta-ta then."
His Sunday Love Songs show "brought joy to millions of listeners", Helen Thomas, Head of Radio 2, said this afternoon.
On his final show, Wright welcomed listeners in his usual cheery way - singing along to the tunes.
He went on to say the two-hour show would be made up of "the greatest love songs of all time".
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Wright was his happy self, joking that he and others on the show slow-danced in the work kitchen.
He gave special Valentine's Day shout-outs to lovers across the country.
The star's family today announced the legend's death.
Tributes are already pouring in for him, with Zoe Ball and Vernon Kay leading them.
His mourning loved ones said: "It is with deep sorrow and profound regret that we announce the passing of our beloved Steve Wright.
Celtic icon Frank McGarvey dies aged 66 as tributes paid to hero after cancer fight"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."
He had been due to front a new BBC spin-off show as the broadcaster planned to launch four fresh stations.
Steve joined the BBC in the 1970s and spent four decades hosting his beloved afternoon shows.
He also fronted TV programmes for the broadcaster, including Top of the Pops.
Tributes have flooded in from colleagues, including from presenter Sara Cox.
She said: "It's really hard to know what to say about the news of Steve Wright's passing, except we are all shocked and devastated and blindsided by this news.
"Steve was an extraordinary broadcaster, a really kind person, he was witty, he was warm, and he was a huge, huge part of the Radio 2 family, and I know my fellow DJs will all be absolutely shattered too."
Zoe Ball said: "Wrighty. Our radio friend, our inspiration, master of broadcasting, the Godfather, 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."
Jo Whiley wrote: "What a man. What a legend.
"The broadcaster's broadcaster.
"One of the kindest, loveliest people I've had the pleasure to work with.
"Thanks for the support & music chat over the years.
"Can't believe we won't meet in the bowels of MV for our weekly catch up. Love ya Wrighty."
While Piers Morgan said: "RIP Steve Wright, 69. One of Britain’s greatest ever radio broadcasters.
"A brilliantly creative, funny, warm, intelligent, hard-working & energetic man. Absolutely loved him, on and off air. So sad to hear this news.
"Thanks for all the wonderful entertainment, Steve."
Steve was born in Greenwich, south London, in 1954 and began his career at the BBC as a clerk.