Veteran broadcaster Johnnie Walker, a trailblazer in British radio, has passed away aged 79. Walker, who had retired from broadcasting in October due to ill health, died on New Year’s Eve.
Tributes have poured in from across the music and broadcasting worlds, with his wife Tiggy posting a poignant message on Twitter: “What does a new widow do on NYE? She listens to BBC Radio 2, opens a bottle and toasts her amazing husband. Courageous, wise, strong, creative and never dull. They didn’t call him the Pirate for nothing. Above all – the most devoted, loving husband. Please raise a glass to Johnnie Walker.”
What does a new widow do on NYE? She listens to @BBCRadio2, opens a bottle and toasts her amazing husband. Courageous, wise, strong, creative and never dull. They didn’t call him the Pirate for nothing. Above all – the most devoted loving husband. Pls raise a to Johnnie Walker pic.twitter.com/B0S30YiDal
— Tiggy Walker (@TiggyWalker) December 31, 2024
Walker’s career began in the golden age of pirate radio. Starting with Swinging England, he became a household name on Radio Caroline. Defying the UK government’s Marine Broadcasting Offences Act in 1967, which outlawed pirate stations, Walker continued broadcasting from international waters before joining the BBC in 1969. At Radio 1, his eclectic taste and refusal to stick to playlists earned him a devoted following, though it also led to disputes with the station’s management. These disagreements prompted a move to America in 1976, where he spent five years broadcasting in California and Maryland.
Returning to the UK in the early 1980s, Walker worked for various local radio stations before making a triumphant return to the BBC in 1987. His tenure at Radio 2’s Sounds of the 70s programme, which he took over in 2008, solidified his legacy. Over 15 years, Walker transformed the show into a celebration of the era’s music and culture, winning over new generations of listeners. He introduced the ‘Johnnie’s Jukebox’ feature, where Johnnie and listeners would select a single from the 70s to be stored in the imaginary jukebox.
His final broadcast on 27 October 2024 was an emotional farewell. “[It’s] going to be very strange not to be on the wireless anymore. Also, by the same token, life will be slightly less of a strain really, trying to find the breath in order to do the programmes. Thank you for being with me all these years and take good care of yourself and those you love. May we walk into the future with our heads held high and happiness in our hearts. God bless you.”
Bob Harris announcing the death of Johnnie Walker on BBC Radio 2’s Sounds of the 70s this afternoon. pic.twitter.com/5aXBADYKhz — Gareth Joy (@lookoutwales2) December 31, 2024
The announcement of Walker’s passing was made by his successor, Bob Harris, who paid a heartfelt tribute to his friend of over 50 years. “Johnnie was one of the greats, a voice that defined an era and a man who lived and breathed music,” Harris said. Social media has been awash with tributes from fans, coworkers and musicians, with one listener commenting, “He had one of the best voices on radio, and excellent taste in music too. Sleep well, Johnnie, you will be missed.”
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Walker’s influence extended beyond his radio shows. In a 2013 interview with Tony Benn, he reflected on the transformative role of pirate radio: “This was one of the greatest musical explosions in history, and the BBC decided to play only an hour on Saturday morning. But teenagers were desperate to hear it, and, three and a half miles off the Essex coast, pirate radios were doing that. And people loved them.” Walker’s defiance of the establishment and passion for sharing music left an indelible mark on British culture.
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.
— Ken Bruce (@RealKenBruce) December 31, 2024
Diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, Walker spent his final months at home with Tiggy, his wife and carer, who had supported him tirelessly. Known for his warmth, Walker was a pioneer whose voice will echo through the history of British broadcasting.
As Tiggy poignantly wrote, “They didn’t call him the Pirate for nothing.” Johnnie Walker’s legacy as a champion of music and a beloved broadcaster will endure. Raise a glass to the man who brought the spirit of the airwaves to life.
