PAThe BBC mistakenly reported one of their most devoted radio DJs, Brian Matthew, as dead when he is in fact still critically ill.
The error was soon corrected in a statement, saying that the broadcaster was falsely made aware of Matthew’s death by close family and friends.
The announcement had already spread to numerous individuals who started to post tributes.
Updated statement regarding Brian Matthew: https://t.co/p5twbiRVWD pic.twitter.com/7uJPIgDkXw
— BBC Press Office (@bbcpress) April 5, 2017
Brian hosted Sounds Of The 60s for 27 years on Radio 2 and joined the BBC in 1954.
Due to his deteriorating health, Brian had to stop presenting the iconic show last year, and it was later taken on by The Who and Tony Blackburn.
We're very sad to hear of the passing of veteran BBC DJ Brian Matthew last night. Rest in peace, Brian. With love from The Who. pic.twitter.com/r9k0c1JyGU
— The Who (@TheWho) April 5, 2017
The BBC’s Director-General Tony Hall even released a statement paying tribute to Brian before the correction was announced.
He said:
Brian Matthew was an outstanding broadcaster who entertained and engaged millions over generations.
He had a wonderful style of delivery and a real connection with his listeners.
Brian was a true broadcasting great. We will all miss him and of course, that voice.
Brian had a show planned on Radio 2 this Sunday called The Brian Matthew Years, but has been postponed and in its place, they will re-broadcast a career retrospective show that Matthew made in 2007.
