Johnnie Walker leaves BBC Radio 2 listeners ‘in tears’ as he signs off final show with poignant message

BBC Radio 2 listeners were left emotional on Sunday as veteran DJ Johnnie Walker signed off his final radio show after a 58-year career. The 79-year-old broadcaster bid farewell to his beloved Sounds of the 70s programme, which he had hosted since 2009.

Walker announced earlier this month that he was retiring due to ill health, having been previously diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a rare and progressive lung condition.

In his final broadcast, Walker told listeners it was “the day I’ve always dreaded” as he prepared to hang up his headphones for the last time.

The emotional send-off marked the end of an era for the radio legend, who first joined the BBC in 1969.

Walker closed his final show with an emotional message to his listeners. “Here we are at the end of a 15-year run on Sunday afternoon’s Sounds Of The 70s and 58 years on British radio,” he said.

He acknowledged the difficulty of continuing to broadcast whilst struggling with his health. “It’s going to be very strange not to be on the wireless anymore. But also, by the same token, life will be slightly less of a strain, really, trying to find the breath to do programmes,” Walker explained.

The veteran DJ expressed his gratitude to his audience. “Thank you for being with me all these years and take good care of yourself and those you love,” he said.

Walker concluded with a poignant farewell: “May we walk into the future with our heads held high and happiness in our hearts. God bless you.”

Listeners took to social media to express their emotions over Walker’s departure.

Many shared heartfelt tributes, with one fan writing on X (formerly Twitter): “Johnnie Walker has hung up his headphones after 58 years. One of the radio greats. I’d love to wish him a Happy Retirement, but, sadly, his circumstances dictate otherwise. Bravo, sir, and thank you.”

It’s showtime! And i have a guest…
⁦@TiggyWalker⁩ ⁦@lizziebarn⁩ ⁦@Dr_Paul_Thomas⁩ ⁦@BBCRadio2⁩ #SOT70s #fondfarewell pic.twitter.com/uJsuUHm2N4

— Johnnie Walker (@piratejw) October 27, 2024

A second wrote directly to Walker: “Listening in Johnnie. Not a dry eye in our house. Sundays will never be the same. Thank you for the music and gentle company over the many years. Take care Xx.”

And a third echoed: “Listening with tears in my eyes. Used to listen together with my husband until he passed away last year. It really feels like the end of an era. Thanks for the memories.”

Sir Rod Stewart sent a pre-recorded message, thanking Walker for his support over the years. “By doing so, you propelled the careers of a bunch of unknown layabouts to the top of the charts,” Stewart said.

Walker’s wife, Tiggy, also joined him on the show, praising his determination to continue broadcasting despite his illness.

“I know it’s been really hard for you,” she said, adding, “I know there will be a lot of tears out there today, including mine.”

Walker’s radio career began in 1966 on pirate radio, including Radio Caroline. He joined BBC Radio 1 in 1969, hosting a popular lunchtime show.

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In 2003, Walker faced a battle with cancer, taking time off for treatment. He returned to broadcasting in 2004, playing Eric Clapton’s “Hello Old Friend” as his comeback song.

Walker was made an MBE in the 2006 New Year Honours for his services to broadcasting.

He moved to BBC Radio 2 in 1998, where he remained until his retirement. Walker hosted Sounds of the 70s from 2009 and launched The Rock Show in 2018.

Shaun Keaveny will take over The Rock Show from November 1, while Bob Harris will present Sounds of the 70s from November 3.