Radio legend Colin Berry dies aged 79

Beloved BBC Radio 2 broadcaster Colin Berry, whose career spanned over three decades, has died at the age of 79. The news was announced on-air today by the station, which highlighted his iconic tenure covering for legends like Sir Terry Wogan and his 25-year role as the UK’s Eurovision Song Contest jury spokesperson.

Berry began his radio journey in 1965 as a newsreader for the pirate station Radio Caroline before transitioning into television roles at Granada Television and Yorkshire Television. He joined BBC Radio 2 in 1973, where he became a fixture for 33 years, hosting programmes such as Night Ride, The Late Show, and Music Through Midnight.

From 1977 to 2002, Berry was the unmistakable voice delivering the UK’s Eurovision votes—a role that made him a household name among fans. He also served as the backup commentator for Sir Terry Wogan, narrowly avoiding an on-air emergency once when the broadcast line faltered just 30 seconds before the show.

Fellow broadcasters mourned his passing, with former BBC Radio 2 newsreader Clare Ruaridh writing on X (formerly Twitter): “Sad to say a former colleague and fellow @bbcradio2 newsreader Colin Berry has died aged 79. He also spent 25 years as the UK’s Eurovision jury spokesman.”

Andre Peach, another BBC colleague, shared: “I have strong memories of hearing Colin on @bbcradio2 as a child and it was a thrill to get to work with him.”

After leaving Radio 2 in 2006, Berry continued working in radio, including a weekly show on BBC Local Radio and an occasional music series for BBC Three Counties Radio until 2019. Beyond broadcasting, he made memorable TV appearances on The Generation Game, Blankety Blank, and Bargain Hunt.

Berry’s warm voice, professionalism, and decades of service cemented his status as a British radio icon. Tributes continue to pour in from fans and peers alike, celebrating a man who shaped the sound of UK broadcasting.