Remembering Steve Wright: A Pioneer in the World of Radio and Television Broadcasting
A tribute with information about and links to television and radio broadcasts of the the veteran presenter
Steve Wright, a legendary figure in the world of broadcasting, left an indelible mark on both radio and television. His illustrious career spanned decades, during which he captivated audiences with his distinctive style, wit and charm.
Bonus information and links in the Summary section where I’ve added some surprises.
Mike Read and Steve Wright — Radio Broadcasting Careers
Steve Wright’s People Show, Cyndi Lauper and Des’ree
Radio Journey
Steve’s journey in radio began at Radio Atlantis in Belgium in 1974 then as a radio presenter and reporter at LBC in London in 1975.
He then worked for Radio 210 with Mike Read to co-present “The Read and Wright Show” at weekends on the Reading radio station from March 1976 up to 1979.
He then worked for Radio Luxembourg from 1979 to 1980.
He joined BBC Radio 1 and first presented Top Of The Pops in 1980. He quickly became known for his unique presenting style, blending humour, music and engaging conversation. His afternoon show, “Steve Wright in the Afternoon” (here are various clips from his BBC Radio 2, 2.00–5.00pm on weekdays show) became a staple for listeners across the nation. Some of his characters included Mr. Angry and Sid the Manager. Steve also used to ask to “Get the Geese Off” whereby he’d play the sound of geese squawking. Steve later worked for BBC Radio 2.
He hosted “Steve Wright in the Morning“ on BBC Radio 1 from 1994 to 1995.
In contrast, he presented Steve Wright’s Talk Show on Talk Radio from 1995 to 1996.
For many years, he also presented “Steve Wright’s Sunday Love Songs” (here’s his 29/11/20 edition broadcast on BBC Radio 2 from 9.00–11.00am), and since October 2023, he also presented “Pick Of The Pops”, both of which he continued to present until February 2024.
He also presented “Wright Around the World“ for the BBC World Service from 1999 to 2003. Here he is in May 2000 interviewing glam rock star and golfer Alice Cooper.
He also received an MBE knighthood in the December 2023 New Year’s Honours List.
Television Appearances
In addition to his own show, Steve made numerous television appearances, bringing his trademark humour and charisma to various programmes. Whether hosting panel shows, appearing as a guest on talk shows or presenting documentaries, Steve always made a memorable presence on the small screen.
A lesser known show hosted by Steve was Home Truths which was broadcast on BBC 1 in 1994.
Steve Wright’s People Show
One of Steve’s most notable contributions to television was “Steve Wright’s People Show”. Premiering in 1994, this groundbreaking programme showcased Steve’s talent for interviewing and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life. With his affable demeanour and genuine curiosity, Steve created a platform where guests felt comfortable sharing their stories with him, making for compelling viewing.
Top Of The Pops
Steve initially hosted Top Of The Pops in 1980 as a solo presenter, then later coupling with other presenters from 1983, as well as various Radio 1 DJs during Christmas specials in 1981, 1982 and 1983 and on 25 Years of Top Of The Pops on 31/12/88 where some former TOTP presenters joined the existing presenters on this special edition.
Steve’s last presentation of the show was on 05/10/89 with Jakki Brambles.
Top Of The Pops with Cliff Richard, 21/08/80
Chart Rundown, 30/07/81
Chart Rundown, 17/09/81
Chart Rundown, 19/11/81
Chart Rundown with Richard Skinner, 31/03/83
With a reference to a comical novelty song by Kenny Everett
Top Of The Pops with Mark Goodier, 26/05/88
TOTP 2
From 1997 to 2009 Steve took over the reign of doing the voice over to various clips on BBC 2, mainly from Top of the Pops, but also other television shows.
Free — All Right Now, Top of the Pops, 04/06/70
The Move — California Man, Top of the Pops, 22/06/72
The colour drifts in and out, as this is a low band recording recovered from BBC Scotland to replace the wiped edition of the show
Hawkwind — Silver Machine, Top of the Pops, 13/07/72
Travels
Steve also liked to travel and he regularly flew alone to the United States for a few days, solely to listen to local radio stations to pick up inspiration for his Zoo format, long-running afternoon show on BBC Radio 1 then BBC Radio 2.
Legacy
Steve Wright had a major influence on both radio and television. His innovative approach to broadcasting paved the way for future generations of presenters and hosts. He will be remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for the joy and laughter he brought to audiences worldwide.
As we reflect on Steve’s remarkable career, we celebrate his enduring legacy and the indelible mark he left on the world of entertainment. Though he may now be gone, his voice and spirit will continue to resonate through the airwaves for years to come.
SUMMARY with Bonus Links
Steve Wright’s Career — Information
Steve Wright’s Career — Television and Radio recordings
Steve Wright with Marc Bolan, Radio 210, Reading, 20/03/76
Source: 210thamesvalley
His first ever BBC Radio 1 show on a Saturday evening in 1980
Clips
BBC Radio 1 (1981–1993); BBC Radio 2 (1999–2022), weekdays from 2.00–5.00pm
BBC Radio 1, circa 1983
BBC Radio 1, 08/04/85 (Easter Monday)
BBC Radio 1 with Status Quo, November 1989
BBC Radio 1, 1991
BBC Radio 1, January to June 1991
Steve Wright in the Morning, BBC Radio 1, 1994 or 1995?
The Newsagent
Steve Wright’s Talk Show, Talk Radio, 06/01/96
Steve Wright’s Saturday Show — First edition, BBC Radio 2, 1996
Wright Around the World, BBC World Service, May 2000
BBC Radio 2, 24/04/19
Steve Wright’s Sunday Love Songs, BBC Radio 2, 9.00–11.00am, 29/11/20
BBC Radio 2 (1996–2024)
Pick of the Pops, BBC Radio 2, 1.00–3.00pm, First edition of 18 shows, 21/10/23
*** Update ***
- From June 2024: Love Songs with Michael Ball, BBC Radio 2, 9.00–11.00am (currently hosted by Nicki Chapman)
- From July 2024: Pick Of The Pops with Mark Goodier, BBC Radio 2, 1.00–3.00pm (currently hosted by Gary Davies)
Source: https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/2024/mark-goodier-pick-of-the-pops-bbc-radio-2
TELEVISION
Home Truths, BBC 1, 23/02/94
Home Truths, BBC 1 Wales, 1994
Steve Wright’s People Show, BBC 1, Saturday evenings, 1994–1995
Through The Keyhole, 1989
Steve also made guest appearances on other people’s shows, including the original David Frost era of Through the Keyhole.
Here are various tributes to Steve including information about his early career at Thames Valley Radio, also known as Radio 210, which broadcasted from Reading in Berkshire in the UK.
Books — Autobiography
Steve Wright: Tuning into Success: Steve Wright and the Evolution of a Radio Icon — Kindle Edition
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