Andy Kershaw, the beloved BBC DJ, dies at 66 after a brave battle with cancer
Andy Kershaw, the iconic BBC DJ and broadcaster, has passed away at the age of 66, following a battle with cancer. His family confirmed the news on Thursday evening, marking the end of a career that spanned decades, during which Kershaw became a household name for his eclectic taste in music and distinctive voice on the airwaves.
In January 2026, Kershaw publicly revealed that he was undergoing treatment for cancer after tumours were discovered in his spine the previous August. Despite undergoing chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and physiotherapy, the legendary DJ’s health continued to decline, leaving him unable to walk. Throughout his treatment, Kershaw faced immense pain and discomfort, yet he remained determined and in good spirits, continuing to engage with his fans through his podcast, where he maintained his trademark sense of humour.
Kershaw was best known for his time at BBC Radio 1, where he presented a groundbreaking show from 1985 to 2000. His show introduced listeners to non-mainstream music and sounds from around the world, shaping the musical tastes of a generation. His eclectic style earned him a dedicated following, and he went on to win multiple Sony Radio Academy Awards over the years.
But Kershaw’s career extended far beyond music. He was also a passionate reporter, covering conflict and cultural stories for BBC Radio 4. He reported on some of the most harrowing events of the late 20th and early 21st centuries, including the 1994 Rwanda genocide and the civil war in Sierra Leone in 2001. His powerful storytelling made him a key figure in British broadcasting.
The Rochdale-born broadcaster also played a significant role in one of the most iconic television events of the 1980s, co-presenting the BBC’s coverage of the Live Aid concert in 1985. This unforgettable moment in television history cemented Kershaw’s place in the cultural landscape of the time.
After leaving BBC Radio 3 in 2007 following personal struggles, including the breakdown of a long-term relationship, Kershaw faced a period of turmoil. He served a three-month prison sentence in 2008 after breaching a restraining order. However, Kershaw was always candid about his mistakes, later addressing the infidelities that contributed to the end of his relationship and the fit of rage that led to his imprisonment.
Despite these setbacks, Kershaw returned to the BBC in 2010 to present “Music Planet” on BBC Radio 3 and continued to enjoy success in his broadcasting career. His passion for music remained strong, and in 2020, he returned for a brief stint with “The Kershaw Tapes.”
In his final years, Kershaw remained active, launching a self-titled podcast that featured guests such as Robyn Hitchcock, The Burner Band, and Martin Carthy. His humorous, engaging approach to broadcasting was evident even in the face of his illness. In a statement announcing his diagnosis, Kershaw joked that he was “determined not to die before Benjamin Netanyahu, Vladimir Putin, Donald Trump, and Ant ‘n’ Dec,” demonstrating his trademark wit and defiance in the face of adversity.
Kershaw’s passing leaves a significant void in the world of British broadcasting. He was a voice of music, culture, and humanity, beloved by listeners for his authenticity and integrity. His family, including his sister Liz Kershaw, who is also a long-serving BBC radio DJ, mourn his loss but will undoubtedly continue his legacy.
Fans and colleagues alike have expressed their condolences, remembering Kershaw not only for his contribution to music and radio but for his unwavering spirit and commitment to his craft, even in his final days.