The UK radio industry is mourning the loss of Annie Nightingale, the legendary DJ who passed away at the age of 83. Fellow broadcasters Zoe Ball and Jo Whiley, among others, paid heartfelt tributes to Nightingale, who succumbed to a brief illness at her home.
Zoe Ball, the first female host of BBC Radio 1 and Radio 2 breakfast shows, hailed Nightingale as a ‘trailblazer’ for women in radio. Ball expressed her sorrow on social media, saying, ‘Annie Nightingale… heartbroken to hear the news. The original trailblazer for us women in radio. She loved music like no other… and could outlast any of us at the party. So grateful for all the love & support she offered me over the years. What a dame… rest well.’
Embed from Getty ImagesJo Whiley, a BBC radio presenter, described Nightingale as ‘the coolest woman who ever graced the airwaves’ and shared a black-and-white picture of Nightingale in a radio studio, expressing her utmost respect and gratitude for the trailblazing icon.
Trevor Nelson, a DJ and presenter on BBC Radio 1Xtra, reminisced about Nightingale’s influence on his broadcasting career, stating, ‘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.’
Greg James, the presenter of BBC flagship the Radio 1 Breakfast Show, shared that being in Nightingale’s presence was ‘such a treat’ and expressed deep sadness over her passing. He remarked, ‘We’re going to miss her so much. She was just absolutely amazing.’
Annie Mac, the former BBC Radio 1 DJ, praised Nightingale for changing ‘the face and sound of British TV and Radio broadcasting forever.’ Macmanus highlighted Nightingale’s impact on breaking sexist stereotypes in broadcasting, calling her a ‘trailblazer’ who smashed through barriers.
Other industry figures, such as Danny Howard and Emily Eavis, also paid their respects to Nightingale, acknowledging her as an ‘all-time radio great’ and ‘an inspiration to so many women in music.’
Nightingale, who received an MBE for services to radio broadcasting in 2002, held a Guinness World Record for being the longest-serving female broadcaster in 2010. Her family released a statement, describing her as a ‘pioneer, trailblazer, and inspiration’ and announced a memorial service to celebrate her life in the spring.
Annie Nightingale began her BBC career in 1963 and played a pivotal role in paving the way for female DJs, influencing the likes of Sara Cox, Jo Whiley, and Zoe Ball. Until recently, she continued to host her show, “Annie Nightingale presents…,” on BBC Radio 1.
