Tributes to Sir Terry Wogan

Statement on behalf of the Wogan family:

"Sir Terry Wogan died today after a short but brave battle with cancer. He passed away surrounded by his family. While we understand he will be missed by many, the family ask that their privacy is respected at this time."

Bob Shennan, Controller of Radio 2, said:

"As the host of Wake Up To Wogan, Terry established himself as one of the greatest and most popular Radio hosts this country has ever heard. We were brightened by his wonderful personality and charm as he woke us up every weekday morning, becoming an essential and much-loved part of our lives. His millions of listeners adored him, as did his whole Radio 2 family. We will miss him enormously and our thoughts at this very sad time are with Helen and all the family."

Helen Boaden, Director of BBC Radio, said:

"Sir Terry was a radio legend. For decades, he gave great pleasure to radio listeners with his wit, warmth and inimitable humour. He was an extraordinary broadcaster but also incredibly good fun, and will be sorely missed."

Tony Hall, BBC Director-General, said:

"Terry truly was a national treasure. Today we've lost a wonderful friend. He was a lovely, lovely man and our thoughts are with his wife and family. For 50 years Sir Terry graced our screens and airwaves. His warmth, wit and geniality meant that for millions he was a part of the family. Wake Up To Wogan was for millions of Radio 2 listeners the very best way to start the day. For decades, he's been such a huge part of the BBC on television and radio and leaves so many wonderful memories. At the centre of Children in Need since its beginning, he raised hundreds of millions of pounds and changed so many lives for the better. He leaves a remarkable legacy."

From Mark Linsey, Acting Director of BBC Television, said:

"Terry Wogan was part of the fabric of BBC Television, a consummate broadcaster who entertained and delighted millions. His contribution - to Children in Need, Eurovision, Blankety Blank and his long-running chat show Wogan - was truly outstanding. We will remember him with warmth, affection and admiration, and our thoughts are with his family."

Notes to Editors

Terry was last on air on BBC Radio 2 on Sunday 8 November 2015.

BBC Press Office