John Bennett, veteran BBC Northern Ireland broadcaster, has died aged 82.
A statement shared by his family said he died peacefully on Friday (July 26) evening, surrounded by them. No cause of death has been given.
His daughter Siobhan and son Mark described him as “a consummate professional” who enjoyed a “long and celebrated career in broadcasting”.
“In addition to this, he served many years as a teacher. He touched the lives of innumerable people, and they are ever the richer for his inspiration and influence.
“Northern Ireland has lost a lynchpin in local broadcasting. We, as a family, have lost a loving Father, Father-in-law and cherished Granda.”
Bennett’s broadcasting career spanned almost 60 years. During that time, he became one of Northern Ireland’s most famous radio personalities, presenting music, entertainment, sports and current affairs programmes for the BBC since 1965.
In 1974, on New Year’s Eve, he co-launched BBC Radio Ulster alongside Gloria Hunniford. Hunniford has shared a tribute to Bennett, calling him “A giant in broadcasting.”
“We had the privilege of launching BBC Radio Ulster together and we have been friends ever since,” Hunninford said. “I loved him as a person, admired him as a broadcaster and have wonderful memories of him singing.
“He was a truly gifted, gracious and generous man,” she added. “His contribution to audiences in Northern Ireland and beyond is immeasurable.”
He was most celebrated for his work on The Sunday Club, which he presented for over 44 years.
In January 2023, Bennett was awarded an MBE for services to Television and Radio Broadcasting. Shortly after, he was inducted into the IMRO Radio Awards Hall of Fame. His citation said that he had “left an indelible mark on the broadcasting landscape.”
Tributes continue to pour in for veteran BBC Northern Ireland broadcaster John Bennett MBE, who has died at the age of 82. pic.twitter.com/9oLxxBbhMu
— BBC Newsline (@bbcnewsline) July 29, 2024
On behalf of the IMRO Radio Awards committee, we would like to express our sadness at the passing of John Bennett
John was inducted into the Hall of Fame just last year in 2023. Our sympathies to his family and radio friends.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam. pic.twitter.com/nSu1XZPEe1
— IMRO Radio Awards (@IMRORadioAwards) July 27, 2024
John Bennett was one of those fine broadcasters who maybe had the harder task- to help keep spirits up and normal life going from the darkest days of the Troubles. We owe him a huge debt. Along with their sorrow, his family are so obviously proud of him. https://t.co/84aya2XCmu
— Brian Walker (@bwalker347) July 27, 2024
