BBC legend dead as Gloria Hunniford leads tributes to 'giant in broadcasting'
John Bennett, who was known as 'The President' of the weekend music programme The Sunday Club, has died at the age of 82, his family have confirmed
BBC Northern Ireland broadcasting stalwart John Bennett has sadly passed away at the age of 82, leaving behind a legacy that touched many lives across the nation.
The esteemed John Bennett, a cherished figure in Northern Irish broadcasting, died surrounded by his loved ones on Friday evening. His family honoured him as the "lynchpin" of Northern Ireland's broadcasting scene, while the BBC lauded his radio presentations for their "wit and authenticity".
His family released a heartfelt statement, saying: "Our dad was a consummate professional, enjoying 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, a Belfast native, embarked on his illustrious BBC career in 1965, becoming a familiar voice across music, entertainment, sports, and current affairs programming. Notably, he co-launched BBC Radio Ulster alongside Gloria Hunniford on New Year's Eve in 1974 and earned the affectionate title "The President" during his more than 44-year tenure hosting The Sunday Club, a beloved weekend music show.
John left an indelible mark on radio broadcasting throughout the 1990s with his signature weekday morning show, featuring programmes and a wealth of documentaries. The BBC extolled "his encyclopaedic knowledge of music", coupled with an avid love for football and playing the guitar, reports the Mirror.
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Reputed as a "master of the long-form interview", John held a "deep connection" with his loyal audiences.
Honours came to John in January 2023, when he was awarded an MBE for his exceptional services to Television and Radio Broadcasting.
He was further esteemed when he took his rightful place in the IMRO Radio Awards Hall of Fame, a testament to a career that had reshaped broadcasting.
His legacy is continued by his daughter Siobhan and son Mark, after his wife of 53 years, Joan, predeceased him in 2020.
BBC's Gloria Hunniford expressed her heartfelt condolences over her old friend's passing, describing John as "a giant in broadcasting". She said: "I have nothing but joyful memories of working with him. We had the privilege of launching BBC Radio Ulster together and we have been friends ever since."
Gloria reminisced fondly about their friendship: "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. His contribution to audiences in Northern Ireland and beyond is immeasurable. He was a gentleman and great friend and I will miss him very much. My thoughts are with his family at this very sad time."
