Mark Goodier has been chosen to host BBC Radio 2’s Pick Of The Pops program following the passing of DJ Steve Wright earlier this year. Goodier, who shared a friendship with Wright, expressed feeling honored to take over the role, although he wished the circumstances were happier. His hosting duties will commence in July, with Gary Davies stepping in until then.
Radio 2 had previously announced Michael Ball as Wright’s replacement on the Sunday Love Songs show. Wright’s final Radio 2 broadcast occurred on February 11, with news of his unexpected death emerging just two days later. The Metropolitan Police later confirmed his passing, stating it wasn’t considered suspicious.
Wright, recognized as a radio innovator, played a pivotal role in reshaping the role of disc jockeys, introducing lively Zoo-format shows to Radio 1 in the 1980s. Following stints in commercial radio, he joined BBC Radio 2 in 1996, hosting various shows including Steve Wright’s Saturday Show and Sunday Love Songs. He also revived his weekday show, “Steve Wright in the Afternoon,” in 1999. Taking over Pick Of The Pops last year, Wright continued his radio legacy.
Pick Of The Pops, initially broadcast on the BBC Light Programme in 1955, transitioned to Radio 1 before settling on Radio 2. Featuring Franklin Engelmann as its original presenter, the show became iconic, particularly with the arrival of Alan “Fluff” Freeman in 1961. Freeman’s dynamic style boosted the show’s popularity, leading to its simultaneous broadcast on Radio 1 and 2 from 1967. Although the format evolved to feature classic charts, the essence of the show endured. Themes and hosts changed over time, with Barbara Moore rearranging the iconic theme tune in 1970.
Dale Winton succeeded Freeman in 2000, with subsequent hosts including Tony Blackburn and Paul Gambaccini. Now, with Mark Goodier set to lead, he aims to engage Radio 2 listeners by revisiting memorable chart moments and playing timeless records, fostering nostalgia and enjoyment among the audience.
