Janice Long dead: BBC radio presenter dies on Christmas Day aged 66 after a short illness

Lily Waddell26 December 2021

BBC radio presenter Janice Long died aged 66 on Christmas Day after a short illness.

Her agent Nigel Forsyth broke the sad news on Boxing Day in a statement.

The BBC star leaves behind her husband Paul and their two children.

He said in a statement: “Janice was a wonderful, warm human being and exceptional broadcaster.

“She told a brilliant story and always made you roar with laughter with her sharp wit. She will leave behind her husband Paul and two children who she thought the world of.

“Janice loved the BBC and started her career as a station assistant at BBC Radio Merseyside in 1979 to complete it with the magnificent people at BBC Radio Wales.

“Janice wanted it known she was so thankful to the NHS and all who looked after her there.”

Ms Long had a high-flying career for 40 years.

She was the first woman to have her own daily show on Radio 1.

Also, the mum-of-two hosted Top of the Pops for five years.

Tributes flooded in for the BBC star after the news of her death hit headlines.

Lorna Clarke, controller of pop music at the BBC, was among those paying tribute to the late radio personality.

She said: “Everyone in pop radio was saddened to hear of the passing of Janice Long.

“She was long admired for her role as a talent spotter and new music champion, giving Frankie Goes To Hollywood and Amy Winehouse their first radio sessions, as well as lighting the way for female radio and TV presenters throughout the industry.

“We send our deepest condolences to her family and friends at this sad time.”

A spokesperson for Greatest Hits Radio said “We’re incredibly saddened to hear of the passing of Janice Long.

“Throughout her illustrious career, Janice played a significant role and contribution to broadcasting, most recently as an integral part of the Greatest Hits Radio line-up.

“She was one-of-a-kind and will be greatly missed by all of us and her treasured listeners. Our deepest condolences are with her family and loved ones at this time.”

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