Steve Wright ‘struggling with health’ in final conversation with BBC bosses

Details of Steve Wright’s last conversation with bosses at the BBC where he reportedly claimed to be “struggling with his health” have now been revealed. The beloved radio DJ had hosted Steve Wright in the Afternoon for 12 years on Radio 1 and a further 23 years on Radio 2.

After sending shockwaves through fans and colleagues with his sudden passing, BBC stars such as Sara Cox and Zoe Ball have shared tributes to the father of two. Reports claim that Steve had recently voiced concerns about his health with Radio 2 bosses.

“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,” says one BBC star, according to a Daily Mail report. The Mirror has reached out to the BBC for comment.

Last year saw Steve switching roles from his mid-afternoon show, having presented the long-running Pick of the Pops instead, reports The Mirror.

READ MORE BBC Radio 2 star Steve Wright’s final broadcast ‘will never be aired’

Steve Wright, a beloved Radio 2 presenter, reflected on his time at the station: “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.”

His family announced with great sadness Steve’s passing, saying: “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.”

They continued: “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.” The cause of his death has not been shared.

Jo Whiley, a fellow Radio 2 DJ, paid her respects, finding it “very strange” to speak of Steve’s passing when she had just seen him recently. Ken Bruce, another colleague, mentioned he was looking forward to a lunch with Steve to celebrate his recent MBE honour. Steve was awarded an MBE in the New Year’s Honours list for 2024.

Steve Wright, a long-standing presenter on BBC Radio 2, made his last appearance on Sunday. He hosted a pre-recorded Valentine’s Day special of his Sunday Love Songs, which aired just two days before his family announced his passing.

During his final show, Steve asked his loyal listeners: “How is everyone? Is everything working?” He ended his last show with a promise he couldn’t keep, saying, “I’m back for more love songs next Sunday. Ta-ra then,” The broadcaster has confirmed plans to honour Steve’s life with special programming across the station.