Category: Radio
1; Radio
4; World
Service
Date: 26.10.2004
Printable version
It has been
confirmed that 91Èȱ¬ radio broadcaster John Peel died from a heart attack
last night whilst on holiday in Peru.
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He leaves behind his wife Sheila and four children.
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Radio 1 Controller Andy Parfitt said: "John Peel
was a broadcasting legend. I am deeply saddened by his death as are
all who work at Radio 1.
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"John's influence has towered over the development
of popular music for nearly four decades and his contribution to modern
music and music culture is immeasurable.
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"Hopeful bands all over the
world sent their demo tapes to John knowing that he really cared. His
commitment and passion for new music only grew stronger over the years.
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"In fact, when I last saw him he was engaged in
a lively debate with his fellow DJs over the state of new music today.
He will be hugely missed."
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91Èȱ¬ Director of Radio & Music Jenny Abramsky added:
"John Peel was a unique broadcaster whose influence on Radio 1
could be felt from its very first days.
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"He nurtured musicians and listeners alike introducing
them to new sounds.
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"His open minded approach to music was mirrored
by his equally generous approach to his audience when he went to Radio
4 to present 91Èȱ¬ Truths.
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"He had a remarkable rapport
with all his listeners. Everyone at 91Èȱ¬ Radio is devastated by the news.
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"John is simply irreplaceable. Our hearts go out
to Sheila and his children."
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Mark Thompson, 91Èȱ¬ Director-General, said: "We
are all very shocked and saddened by the news of John's death.
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"He was one of the giants of radio and will be
missed, not just by everyone at the 91Èȱ¬, but by millions of listeners
of all ages."
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John Peel also presented a weekly 91Èȱ¬ World Service music programme.
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Richard Sambrook, Director, World Service & Global News, said: "For
millions of listeners around the world John Peel was the voice of modern
music.
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"His ability to appeal to different generations and across different
cultures was unique. He will be hugely missed."
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Nigel Chapman, Director, World Service, said: "91Èȱ¬ World Service
listeners will be shocked and saddened at the news of John Peel's sudden
death.
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"He was a very popular, pioneering presenter who broadened the
horizons of generations of global listeners.
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"He was a tireless enthusiast for new music in all its forms and
his passion and warmth touched the lives of millions around the world.
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"A great advocate of the World Service, he played a key role in
our recent 70th Anniversary celebrations. His innovative and iconic
style will be greatly missed."
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Phil Harding, Director, English Networks and News, World
Service, said: "John's devoted listeners all over the world will
be immensely saddened by his death.
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"Via the World Service his eclectic good taste
and passion for new music of all forms was transmitted to millions of
listeners world wide.
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"John was not only one of the most influential
figures on the British music scene he was also a giant across the world."
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Radio 2's Janice Long, a former Radio 1 DJ, said: "John
was incredibly passionate about everything he did - not just music,
but his family too.
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"He enjoyed an incredible career, touching many
people's lives - everyone has heard of John Peel.
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"A maverick in the radio industry, he will be a
great loss."
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Radio 1 tribute programmes
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Steve Lamacq will pay tribute to John Peel tonight (Tuesday
26 October) from 11.00pm to 1.00am.
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Tomorrow (Wednesday 27 October) Mary Anne Hobbs will
continue the tribute from 11.00pm to 1.00am.
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On Thursday 28 October, also from 11.00pm to 1.00am,
Steve Lamacq will look back at John's life and talk to people he has
influenced over the years.
