BBC Radio 1 DJ Annie Nightingale dies aged 83 as tributes from BBC colleagues flood in for presenter
Annie Nightingale, pictured in 2016, has died
GETTY
BBC Radio 1 DJ Annie Nightingale has died at the age of 83, her family has confirmed.
The trailblazing DJ was the first female presenter to join the station when she was hired in 1970.
Her family confirmed the news of her death in which they said she died after a "short illness".
The statement read: "Annie Nightingale MBE passed away yesterday at her home in London after a short illness.
"Annie was a pioneer, trailblazer and an inspiration to many. Her impulse to share that enthusiasm with audiences remained undimmed after six decades of broadcasting on BBC TV and radio globally.
"Never underestimate the role model she became.
Annie Nightingale at Radio 1
GETTY
"Breaking down doors by refusing to bow down to sexual prejudice and male fear gave encouragement to generations of young women who, like Annie, only wanted to tell you about an amazing tune they had just heard.
"Watching Annie do this on television in the 1970s, most famously as a presenter on the BBC music show The Old Grey Whistle Test, or hearing her play the latest breakbeat techno on Radio One is testimony to someone who never stopped believing in the magic of rock 'n' roll.
"A celebration of her life will take place in the Spring at a Memorial Service.
"The family request privacy at this time."
Tributes from far and wide have flooded in following the sad news.
The BBC Radio 1 PR X account led the tributes to the DJ as it penned on the social media site: "BBC Radio 1 is extremely saddened to hear of the passing of Radio 1 DJ, Annie Nightingale CBE.
"Our deepest condolences are with Annie’s friends and family at this incredibly difficult time. Rest in peace, Annie."
Meanwhile, Radio 2 and Channel 5 presenter Jeremy Vine shared a snap of Nightingale as he paid tribute: "Rest in peace, Annie Nightingale."
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
- Holly Willoughby breaks silence on Dancing on Ice comeback as she shares first snap from preparations
- Shirley Ballas makes feelings clear on Pernice and Abbington row after BBC Strictly pro 'thanks' fans
- Next James Bond: Golden Globes sparks shake-up in race to replace Daniel Craig as award-winner enters running
BBC Radio 1 is extremely saddened to hear of the passing of Radio 1 DJ, Annie Nightingale CBE. Our deepest condolences are with Annie’s friends and family at this incredibly difficult time.
— BBC Radio 1, 1Xtra & Asian Network Press Office (@BBCRadio1PR) January 12, 2024
Rest in peace, Annie 🤍 pic.twitter.com/oXbpZz5Me1
Radio 1 DJ Danny Howards also shared his condolences: "Very sad to hear the news of Annie Nightingale passing.
"An all time radio great and an inspiration to many! I was in awe of her knowledge and passion for music, the way she talked about it and the stories she had! Such a kind soul and will be missed. Thank you Annie R.I.P."
And BBC Radio colleague Trevor Nelson echoed: "Dear Annie, you were more than just a trailblazer for women on radio, you made me feel like music broadcasting is for life. Rave in peace."