Ken Bruce, the legendary radio host, has offered a heartfelt tribute to his erstwhile colleague Johnnie Walker in light of his passing.
The melancholy announcement reached the airwaves on Tuesday; Johnnie Walker, a stalwart of Radio, died at the age of 79. His departure from the world of radio occurred a mere two months post-retirement, which was prompted by a diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosisa condition impacting the lungs.
In the wake of the news, numerous tributes have emerged, with Ken Bruce, aged 73 and himself having left Radio 2 last year after a long tenure, paying tribute to his former colleague as a “wonderful broadcaster” through a poignant social media missive.
On Tuesday, via X, previously recognised as Twitter, Ken lamented: “So sorry to hear the news about the great Johnnie Walker. Not only was he a wonderful broadcaster but also a man of great personal strength and kindness.”
Johnnie’s death was solemnly declared on New Year’s Eve over the airwaves of Radio 2 and Sounds by his friend Bob Harris, 78, who assumed the helm of Johnnie’s show Sounds of the 70s back in November. Following this, an outpouring of homages ensued.
BBC Radio 2 legend Johnnie Walker sadly died aged 79 (Image: Getty)
Social media users flocked to comment on the post as one shared: “Sad news. RIP, Johnnie, and thank you for introducing me to the very best music. You knew it inside out, it was obvious and infectious.”
Another penned: “The background to many late nights working in my own business. His manner and soft radio voice belied the genius of his art, he was born for radio and is irreplaceable. Rest in peace mate and thanks for the lifetime of memories.”
A third shared: “After @BBCRadio2 got rid of all the great DJ’s-yourself included-I only ever listened to Johnnie on a Sunday afternoon, I haven’t bothered with radio 2 since he left. Good night and God Bless Mr.Walker, may you Rest in Eternal Peace.”
Tiggy Walker, spouse of the departed radio icon, expressed: “I couldn’t be more proud of Johnnie – how he kept broadcasting almost to the end and with what dignity and grace he coped with his debilitating lung disease. He remained his charming, humorous self to the end, what a strong amazing man.”
His former BBC Radio 2 colleague Ken Bruce has been among those paying tribute following the news (Image: PA)
“It has been a rollercoaster ride from start to finish. And if I may say – what a day to go. He’ll be celebrating New Year’s Eve with a stash of great musicians in heaven. One year on from his last live show. God bless that extraordinary husband of mine who is now in a place of peace.”
West End legend Elaine Paige, who hosts her own programme on Radio 2, paid tribute by saying: “So very sad to hear my @BBCRadio2 colleague Johnny Walker has died.”
She added: “My deepest condolences to his wife Tiggy and his family. He will be so deeply missed by everyone. RIP dear Johnnie.”
Director General Tim Davie also expressed his condolences, stating: “We are deeply saddened by the news of Johnnie’s passing and our thoughts are with his family and friends, as well as everyone at Radio 2.”
“Johnnie was a pop radio pioneer and a champion of great music, entertaining millions of beloved listeners on the across decades, most recently hosting two shows on Radio 2. No-one loved the audience as much as Johnnie, and we loved him back.”