BBC star dead - as devastated colleagues pay tribute to 'a true legend'
Former BBC Radio presenter Carl Kingston has sadly passed away after a brief illness. Throughout his impressive career, the broadcaster worked on numerous radio stations including BBC Radio Humberside, Radio Caroline and Viking Radio. With over 50 years in the industry, he played a pivotal role helping many get their big break, including Radio X's Chris Moyles.
Carl's son Andrew shared the heartbreaking news of his father's death on Facebook, confessing that it had come as a shock. In his post, Andrew wrote: "I know that he had so many friends around the world, very many that we don't know. He lived for the radio and did what he loved right to the end."
"We all loved him so much and it's just very hard to process at the moment. RIP Dad, you will always be loved and missed by so many."
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Presenter Stephanie Hirst paid tribute to Carl, thanking him for his support throughout her radio career. Her emotional message read: "Carl kicked the door open for so many of us to have wonderful careers in the world of broadcasting. He mentored, nurtured and inspired us, always there for advice," reports the Daily Star.
"He did his final show last weekend on his beloved Radio Caroline, for their 60th anniversary weekend, which is incredibly bittersweet. Sending all my love to his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time. Rest in peace Carl, it was a dream come true to become friends with one of my radio heroes".
Hits Radio presenter Alex Duffy shared a heartfelt message: "Sad news that Carl Kingston has passed away. A Yorkshire legend of Viking, Aire, Minster, Stray and Humberside amongst many others and a pleasure to have worked with him lately at @LDCRadioLeeds."
Viking FM's Chris Johnson paid an emotional tribute: "So sad to hear Carl Kingston has passed away. A top broadcaster, an inspiration to me and a good friend. Loved our chats, rest easy pal."
"I was talking about him yesterday. I knew he was in hospital, this is terribly sad," wrote fellow presenter David Francis.
Another colleague was also touched: "That is so sad to hear. As you say, an absolute legend on Yorkshire radio stations including 23 years on Radio Aire and Magic 828."
River Radio's Steve Marshall, Programme Director, commended Carl's impact: "Carl helped so many people get their first start in radio, including Chris Moyles who got his first break answering the phones for Carl's Radio Aire show. I also want to thank him for his dedication and help in making River Radio sound great in the mornings."
"A lover of life, good food, good friends, and most of all great radio. My thoughts are with his son Andrew, Sue, and all his family and friends. Thank you Carl for all your support and what you've done for River Radio, May he RIP [sad emoji]."
Carl, a Hull native, kicked off his broadcasting career in 1974 with BBC Radio Humberside. His illustrious career saw him working for a variety of stations such as Radio Caroline, Viking Radio, The Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation, The Voice of Peace in Israel, Blue Danube Radio in Austria, Radio Nova in Moldova, Radio Seagull in Holland and 91 FM Radio Atlanta.