Radio 1 legend Annie Nightingale dies as family pay tribute

Annie Nightingale

Iconic Radio 1 DJ Annie Nightingale has died, her family announced.

A 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.”

It continued: “Never underestimate the role model she became. 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. Alex, Lucy, Ollie and Will.”

The radio and TV broadcaster was the first female presenter on BBC Radio 1 in 1970 and remained a broadcaster there over the years. The DJ specialised in supporting new and underground music and led the incredible movement and encouraged women to become DJs and broadcasters.

Annie was BBC Radio 1’s longest-serving broadcaster and even held the Guinness World Record for the longest career as a female radio presenter.

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