BBC Radio 2 to Honour Steve Wright with Bank Holiday Tribute
Tribute to Steve Wright to air Bank Holiday Monday 25 August, 5 - 7pm on BBC Radio 2 and BBC Sounds.
BBC Radio 2 will celebrate the life and career of broadcasting legend Steve Wright MBE this Bank Holiday Monday, following a special memorial event held at the BBC Radio Theatre in London on Wednesday 28 April 2025.
Hosted by Vernon Kay, the evening brought together Wright’s family, friends, colleagues, production staff, and figures from across the creative industries. True to Wright’s ethos as the self-styled “cheer-up guy,” the night avoided solemnity, instead embracing humour, warmth, and laughter.
The stage was transformed for one night only by The Steve Wright Orchestra, led by Adam Dennis, which performed live jingles and music in a nod to Wright’s love of American-style chat shows. Vernon Kay also fronted “talkie bit” segments, where guests shared their memories. Jessie J and Jack Dee recalled Wright’s generosity and the joy of appearing on his long-running Steve Wright in the Afternoon show.
The tribute also featured heartfelt video messages from stars of music, television, and film. Gary Barlow, Craig David, Simon Cowell, Sir Elton John, Sir Rod Stewart, Lulu, and Gilbert O’Sullivan paid homage to Wright’s pivotal role in their careers. Country music stars Carly Pearce, Thomas Rhett, and Scott Borchetta also reflected on his enthusiastic support for Nashville talent. Close friends Emma Freud and Richard Curtis remembered Wright’s commitment to Comic Relief.
On stage, BBC colleagues Zoe Ball, Bob Harris, and Greg James shared personal stories and celebrated Wright’s enduring impact on British radio. Special live performances added to the atmosphere, with Michael Kiwanuka delivering an acoustic version of Cold Little Heart and Joan Armatrading closing the night with her classic Love & Affection.
Following the memorial, a Love Songs special will air.
The tribute cements Steve Wright’s legacy as one of radio’s most beloved voices, whose humour, warmth, and passion for music left an indelible mark on listeners and colleagues alike.