BBC Radio 2 has announced that radio icon Mark Goodier will be taking over Steve Wright’s hit show Pick of the Pops each Saturday afternoon from July. Steve Wright, the longtime host of the show, tragically passed away in February at the age of 69. Despite the loss of Wright, BBC producers have found a temporary replacement in Goodier, who is set to bring his own unique style to the iconic Saturday afternoon slot. Goodier expressed his excitement and honor in taking over the show, stating that he wishes it were under happier circumstances, as he was friends with Steve for almost 40 years. The BBC has expressed their confidence in Goodier’s ability to host the show, highlighting his passion for chart countdowns and his extensive broadcasting experience.
The news of Goodier’s appointment comes after the untimely passing of Steve Wright, who had been a beloved figure on Radio 2 for many years. Wright’s sudden death left many listeners heartbroken, as they had tuned into his show, Pick of the Pops, every week. The show had become a tradition for many, and Wright’s absence was deeply felt by fans. BBC Radio 2 had initially let Wright go before his final show was scheduled, leading to speculation about the cause of his passing. In response to the loss of Wright, the BBC has been working diligently to find a suitable replacement. Gary Davies had temporarily hosted the show in the interim, but now the baton has been passed to Goodier, who brings with him a wealth of experience in the broadcasting industry.
Goodier’s long-standing career in radio began in the 1970s as a mobile DJ before he eventually landed a presenting role at a station in Edinburgh. He is best known for his time hosting the UK’s top 40 songs on BBC Radio 1 from 1990 to 1992 and again from 1995 to 2002. With his extensive broadcasting experience, the BBC is confident that Goodier will be able to carry on the legacy of Steve Wright in the prestigious Pick of the Pops slot. Goodier has expressed his excitement to connect with Radio 2 listeners as they revisit two years in their lives through some of the best records ever made. The BBC has also announced other changes to their weekend programming, including Michael Ball taking over Steve Wright’s Sunday slot and Paddy McGuinness launching a new show on Sundays.
In addition to his new hosting duties on Pick of the Pops, Goodier will be bringing his own unique style and passion for music to the iconic Radio 2 show. Helen Thomas, head of BBC Radio 2, has expressed her delight in having Goodier join the weekend presenting lineup following the loss of Steve Wright. She also thanked Gary Davies for stepping in to host the show during the transition period. Goodier’s appointment marks a new chapter for Radio 2’s Saturday afternoon programming, with listeners eagerly anticipating his take on the iconic chart countdown show. As Goodier prepares to take over the reins from Steve Wright, he is expected to bring his own flair and charisma to the role, while paying tribute to his late friend and colleague.
The passing of Steve Wright has left a void in the hearts of many Radio 2 listeners, who had grown accustomed to his warm, engaging presence on Pick of the Pops. Wright’s signature style and love for music endeared him to fans, making his sudden absence all the more profound. Goodier’s appointment as his replacement signals a new era for the show, as he pays homage to Wright’s legacy while infusing the program with his own personality. With his extensive broadcasting experience and passion for chart countdowns, Goodier is poised to make his mark on the iconic Saturday afternoon slot and connect with listeners through the power of music. The BBC’s decision to appoint Goodier as the new host of Pick of the Pops underscores their commitment to honoring the legacy of Steve Wright and delivering quality programming to their audience.
