Howard Hughes death: Former BBC radio presenter and ‘kindest soul on Earth’ dies after short illness

British broadcaster Howard Hughes has died following a short illness, his producer has confirmed.

The former BBC radio presenter, who was the first voice listeners heard when Global’s Capital Breakfast Show launched in 1992, died earlier this month, according to an announcement posted to his podcast The Unexplained‘s website on Sunday (overnight in Australia).

“It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of Howard Hughes, the beloved and respected creator of The Unexplained With Howard Hughes and a dear friend who sadly died a week ago,” Hughes’ producer of 16 years Adam Cornwell wrote.

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“He wasn’t simply a presenter, he was a friend to those who tuned in, a guide who journeyed with them through the unknown and, for long time listeners, a constant through life’s good and bad times,” Cornwell continued, noting in an audio message shared to the website that Hughes’ death occurred after a battle with a short illness.

“Howard will be forever missed but never forgotten,” Cornwell’s message concluded.

Tributes have been flowing for Hughes since the news was announced, with the radio presenter being remembered for his interviews with Lionel Richie and David Bowie, as well as Tony Blair when he was the United Kingdom’s prime minister.

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“I am so sad to hear that my friend Howard Hughes has died. Howie was proud to have been’s first breakfast presenter in 92 but I was prouder when he came back to be part of my show. He made every word – every syllable – count and was the master of morning bulletins,” fellow broadcaster Andrew Peach wrote on social media.

Hughes also notably covered the August 1997 death of Diana, Princess of Wales, and the 7/7 London terror attack in 2005.

“Not only was Howard Hughes a broadcasting legend, he was the kindest soul on earth,” BBC Studio Director Holly Palmer wrote on social media.

“I’m heartbroken to hear of his recent passing. Rest in peace my dear friend.”

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