BBC Radio 1’s first female DJ Annie Nightingale has died at the age of 83.
A statement said: “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. 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.”
Annie joined Radio 1 in 1970 as its first female DJ and remained at the station until last year becoming its longest serving broadcaster.
Head of Radio Aled Haydn Jones said: “All of us at Radio 1 are devastated to lose Annie, our thoughts are with her family and friends. Annie was a world class DJ, broadcaster and journalist, and throughout her entire career was a champion of new music and new artists.
“She was the first female DJ on Radio 1 and over her 50 years on the station was a pioneer for women in the industry and in dance music.
“We have lost a broadcasting legend and, thanks to Annie, things will never be the same.”
Lorna Clarke, BBC Director of Music said: “She was a fierce pioneer for new music and supporting female talent and will be hugely missed by her many supporters from around the world.”
Director-General, Tim Davie said: “I’m deeply saddened by Annie’s passing and our thoughts are with her family, many friends and the whole of Radio 1.
“Annie was a uniquely gifted broadcaster who blessed us with her love of music and passion for journalism, for over 50 years. As well as being a trailblazer for new music, she was a champion for female broadcasters, supporting and encouraging other women to enter the industry.
“We will all miss her terribly.”
Mike Read paid tribute to Annie on Regency Radio on Friday:
Scott Mills played tribute to Annie Nightingale on his Radio 2 show this afternoon too: “Some sad news we heard earlier this afternoon about the legendary radio presenter Annie Nightingale who’s passed away at the age of 83. And absolute pioneer who paved the way for women, particularly, in broadcasting and someone that I looked up to immensely.
“She was the first ever female presenter on Radio 1 back in the 70s and was on air basically nonstop right up until the end of last year. An incredible career, Annie was, is one of my radio legends and always will be… Growing up in the 80s, I remember avidly listening to the chart show on Radio 1 and then Annie would be on straight afterwards with the request show.
“Now this will immediately transport you back to the 80s – Sunday night doing homework with Annie on the radio… I remember the ‘Hi’, up to the singing on the song after the chart show so vividly. Annie’s career obviously went on from strength to strength from there and she launched the careers of so many artists and bands, and was always at the forefront of new music and always up to date on what was about to be the next big thing…
“She will be dearly missed here at the BBC and I’m so grateful that I managed to get some advice on a long train journey back from an early event in my first days at Radio 1.”
The coolest woman who ever graced the airwaves. She blazed a trail for us all and never compromised. Her passion for music never diminished.
Annie – My utmost respect and thanks for it all.
Much love Jo 🖤 pic.twitter.com/iMqoaJqvEw— Jo Whiley (@jowhiley) January 12, 2024
Annie Nightingale. Thanks for everything. RIP.
— Huw Stephens (@huwstephens) January 12, 2024
RIP Queen Annie Nightingale pic.twitter.com/YrWjOHMEBQ
— maryanne hobbs (@maryannehobbs) January 12, 2024
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 💙
Annie Nightingale: Legendary Radio 1 DJ dies at 83 https://t.co/6x8lnMb63E
— Trevor Nelson (@DJTrevorNelson) January 12, 2024
Rest in peace, Annie Nightingale. pic.twitter.com/q8HYTWXW7n
— Jeremy Vine (@theJeremyVine) January 12, 2024