BBC Radio Legend Johnnie Walker Announces Retirement Due to Health Struggles After 58-Year Career

Veteran BBC radio presenter, Johnnie Walker, has announced his retirement after an illustrious 58-year career, citing health concerns.

Johnnie Walker, who has been a familiar voice to millions of listeners, will step down from hosting Sounds of the 70s and The Rock Show on BBC Radio 2 at the end of October.

Addressing his listeners on Sunday, October 6, 2024, Walker said, “The struggles I’ve had with doing the show and trying to keep up a professional standard suitable for Radio 2 have been getting more and more difficult.”

He made light of his challenges with a reference to “Puffing Billy,” before acknowledging that the time had come for him to retire.

Pulmonary fibrosis causes scarring in the lungs, making breathing a significant challenge. Walker read out a poignant letter from a listener whose father had passed away from the same condition in 2022, sharing the personal connection that resonated deeply with his own health situation.

Bob Harris will take over Sounds of the 70s, while Shaun Keaveny will assume the role as the new presenter of The Rock Show, following Walker’s departure.

As he prepares to hang up his headphones, Walker promised his fans that he would make his final shows “as good as I possibly can,” signaling the end of a remarkable broadcasting journey that has spanned nearly six decades.

His retirement marks the conclusion of a legendary career, and listeners will undoubtedly miss his voice, which has been synonymous with radio for generations.