BBC radio presenter Janice Long dies aged 66: First regular female host of Top of the Pops died on Christmas Day after a ‘short illness’
- Radio presenter Janice Long died on Christmas Day after short illness, agent said
- Long, aged 66, had a career spanning five decades across radio and television
- She was best known as a presenter on BBC Radio 1 as well as Top of the Pops
BBC radio presenter Janice Long has died aged 66 following a short illness, her agent said.
Nigel Forsyth 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.
BBC radio presenter Janice Long has died aged 66 following a short illness, her agent said
‘Janice wanted it known she was so thankful to the NHS and all who looked after her there.’
Long was the first woman to have her own daily radio show and was also the first woman to present Top of the Pops, which she did for five years.
BBC director general Tim Davie described her as a ‘stellar presenter’ who was loved across the industry.
Lorna Clarke, controller of pop music at the BBC, was among those paying tribute to Janice Long.
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.’