Steve Wright has closed his final Radio 2 afternoon show with the DJ thanking his listeners for tuning in over the past 23 years.
He played with Queen’s Radio Ga Ga and its closing lyrics: “You had your time, you had the power, you haven’t had your prime yet.” As the music faded, Wright said: “These are the final moments of Steve Wright’s afternoon on Radio 2.”
He emphasized that he is not retiring and that he will keep his Sunday morning show. His last words were: “See you on Sunday and every Sunday for ‘love songs’ and for all the other programs in the coming weeks and months; on behalf of the team, this has been Steve Wright on the afternoon.”
Steve Wright in 1985 with fellow Radio 1 DJs Simon Bates, Janice Long and Bruno Brookes. Photograph: Rogers/Getty Images
Earlier, Wright expressed his love and gratitude to his listeners.
“Most of all, I want to thank you for listening from the bottom of my heart. If you’ve ever listened over the last 23 years, me and the team really don’t know how to thank you enough. And it goes without saying that I love you.”
He also thanked former BBC executive Jim Moir for hiring him. Wright recalled Moir telling him, “Whatever you do, Wrighty, don’t scare the horses.”
Prior to his Radio 2 career, he had presented his afternoon program on sister station Radio 1 from 1981 to 1993.
TV colleagues were among those who paid tribute. Jo Whiley tweeted: “Although he is NOT retiring and would be mad if we believed it, very emotional to hear Master Steve Wright’s final Big Show @BBCRadio2.” 🥹🥹🥹
BBC world affairs editor John Simpson tweeted: “So sad to think the great Steve Wright is leaving his @BBCRadio2 slot this afternoon. Bless you Steve and thanks for all the fun interviews we’ve had done over the years, and for all the great pleasure you have given to millions and millions of listeners.”
Presenter Sue Perkins tweeted: “Broadcasting legend Steve Wright on @BBCRadio2. Agent. Always a pleasure to be interviewed by him.”
Wright will also launch his Serious Jockin’ podcast on November 4.