DJ Johnnie Walker ends 58-year career with last BBC show
Johnnie Walker Retires After 58 Years On Air
Walker lifts his glass in celebration as he hosts his last episode of Sounds Of The 70s on BBC Radio 2.
Experienced DJ Johnnie Walker admitted, "The day I’ve always feared has finally arrived," as he hosted his last Sounds Of The 70s program on BBC Radio 2.
The 79-year-old host revealed earlier this month that he would be stepping down from his radio career after 58 years because of health issues.
In his last show on Sunday, Walker announced that he wouldn’t be taking any song requests. Instead, he would be selecting all the tracks himself, stating, "I’m playing all the ones that are dear to me."
In a heartfelt concluding episode, there were heartfelt messages from his wife, Tiggy, and Sir Rod Stewart. Walker wrapped up the show by encouraging listeners to "move forward with pride and joy in our hearts."
Johnnie Walker became a part of Radio 1 in 1969.
Walker started hosting Sounds of the 70s in 2009, but he has been a part of British radio for nearly sixty years.
After starting his final performance with George Harrison's song "What Is Life," Walker dedicated his next track, "We Are Family" by Sister Sledge, to his audience.
Walker was accompanied on the air by his ex-co-host, Sally Boazman, who remarked that teaming up with him was the "greatest fortune" she had ever experienced.
The duo collaborated on BBC Radio 2's Drivetime show for seven years starting in 1999.
In a recorded message, Sir Rod Stewart commended Walker for his support in advancing the careers of numerous rock bands.
Sir Rod explained to Walker that he had helped launch the careers of several unknown individuals into the spotlight, leading them to chart-topping success and all the associated perks of sudden fame.
The rock star concluded his message by extending an invitation to Walker: "If I happen to make it through the pearly gates, I'll order a pint of Guinness, my friend, and you know what? The bill's on me."
"Catch you later, Johnny. Keep rocking, my friend!"
Walker co-hosted the BBC Radio 2 Drivetime show for several years, working alongside Sally Boazman.
Walker became a part of BBC Radio 1 in 1969 after working as a DJ on the pirate radio station Radio Caroline during the 1960s.
He departed from the BBC in 1976 and subsequently relocated to San Francisco, where he hosted a weekly program that aired on Radio Luxembourg.
He made his comeback to the BBC in the 1980s, and on January 17, 1987, Walker returned to Radio 1, hosting the Saturday afternoon program called The Stereo Sequence.
Since then, he has continued his journey at the BBC, recently wrapping up his final episode of The Rock Show on Friday, where he shared some of his "beloved rock anthems."
Walker (to the left) alongside Tony Blackburn (to the right), who also stepped down in 2024.
Walker’s wife, Tiggy, who watched the show from their home in Dorset, commended her husband for maintaining his broadcasting duties even after he fell “very ill” in January.
The renowned radio personality was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a serious lung disease that can significantly impair breathing.
"I understand how difficult things have been for you, and I really want to commend you for your perseverance. Your efforts bring joy to many people," Tiggy expressed.
"I understand that today will bring many tears, including my own."
Walker acknowledged that he might get a little emotional as he expressed his gratitude for her exceptional support, saying, "I definitely couldn't have managed the show without that, so I really appreciate it."
Following the announcement of his retirement, Walker shared with the BBC: "I receive messages from people who say, 'You’re the friend I’ve never had' and similar sentiments. It will be tough to bid farewell."
In November, Bob Harris will replace Walker as the host of Sounds of the 70s.
