Radio 1 DJ Annie Nightingale, the station’s first female presenter, who went on to become its longest-serving host, has died at the age of 83.
Annie Avril Nightingale joined BBC Radio 1 in 1970 and remained the only woman on the line-up for 12 years. Known for her passion for a wide range of music from prog rock and punk to acid house and grime. She remained on air until late last year with Annie Nightingale Presents. Nightingale was also known for co-hosting BBC Two music show The Old Grey Whistle Test and was awarded an MBE in 2002 and a CBE in 2020 as well as being inducted into the Radio Academy Hall of Fame in 2004.
In a statement reported by the BBC, her family said she died at home in London on Thursday, following a short illness. They paid tribute to “a pioneer, trailblazer and an inspiration to many” and described how she became a role model for generations of young women.
“Her impulse to share that enthusiasm with audiences remained undimmed after six decades of broadcasting on BBC TV and radio globally,” Nightingale’s family said.
“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.”
