BBC Radio 2 confirm Steve Wright replacement for Sunday Love Songs

BBC Radio 2 has confirmed Steve Wright's replacement for Sunday Love Songs following the DJ's recent death.

The broadcaster passed away in February aged 69, leading to an outpouring of tributes from across the entertainment world.

The BBC has now confirmed that Michael Ball will take over the slot from June with Love Songs with Michael Ball, set to broadcast on Sundays between 9am and 11am.

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The singer and presenter had previously presented on Sundays between 11am and 1pm, with that slot now taken by Top Gear's Paddy McGuinness with a new show.

"Steve made Love Songs 'appointment to listen' radio," Ball said. "I'm beyond excited and more than a little nervous to be tasked with the chance to continue with his extraordinary legacy.

"Beautiful, moving, relaxing and uplifting music to lift the soul on a Sunday morning, coupled with the stories, suggestions, requests and precious memories from you, the listener, will ensure that this won't be just MY show, but OUR show. I hope you will join us as we continue to share the love."

McGuinness added: “I've loved keeping [Rylan Clark's] seat warm on Saturday afternoons and returning to the airwaves over Easter. To be given my very own regular show on the legendary Radio 2 is a dream come true.”

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Wright's Sunday Love Songs has been temporarily hosted by Radio 2 presenter Nicki Chapman since his death, while Liza Tarbuck presented the show with a special tribute programme in the immediate wake of his passing.

Announcing his death, Wright's family said in a statement: "It is with deep sorrow and profound regret that we announce the passing of our beloved Steve Wright.

"In addition to his son, Tom, and daughter, Lucy, Steve leaves behind his brother, Laurence and his father Richard. Also, much-loved close friends and colleagues, and millions of devoted radio listeners who had the good fortune and great pleasure of allowing Steve into their daily lives as one of the UK's most enduring and popular radio personalities.

"As we all grieve, the family requests privacy at this immensely difficult time."

Sam is a freelance reporter and sub-editor who has a particular interest in movies, TV and music. After completing a journalism Masters at City University, London, Sam joined Digital Spy as a reporter, and has also freelanced for publications such as NME and Screen International.  Sam, who also has a degree in Film, can wax lyrical about everything from Lord of the Rings to Love Is Blind, and is equally in his element crossing every 't' and dotting every 'i' as a sub-editor.