Trailblazing DJ Annie Nightingale dies
Her family confirmed the news in a statement
Last updated 12th Jan 2024
Annie Nightingale, trailblazing presenter and DJ, has died aged 83.
She was one of the longest-serving female broadcasters in the world and was given a CBE for services to broadcasting.
Her family confirmed the news in a statement, describing her as a pioneer and a trailblazer.
In a statement reported by the BBC, Annie Nightingale’s family 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 was the first female DJ on Radio 1, joining in 1970, and was also the first woman to present the BBC’s Old Grey Whistle Test music show.
In 2019, she was made a CBE for services to radio having previously been made an MBE in 2002.
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