BBC Radio 2 Icon Passes Away at 87 After Over Five Decades in Broadcasting
Brian Hayes, a prominent figure in radio broadcasting, has passed away at the age of 87. His career spanned over five decades, marking him as an influential personality in the industry. Known for his unique approach to radio, Hayes treated callers “as real people with something to say.”
Early Life and Career
Hayes was born in Perth, Western Australia, in 1937. He began his professional journey in journalism and radio broadcasting.
In the early 1970s, Hayes made the significant move to Britain, which catalyzed his broadcasting career.
Major Milestones in Broadcasting
- 1973: Joined Capital Radio as a producer at its launch.
- Transitioned to on-air roles, gaining recognition for his morning interview and phone-in show on LBC Radio.
- 1990: Left LBC to join BBC Radio 2, hosting the breakfast program Good Morning UK!
- Presented the weekly phone-in show Hayes over Britain, which earned him a Gold Sony Radio Award in the 1990s.
- Continued to work with BBC Radio 5 Live until 2006 and contributed to various programs on BBC Radio 4.
- In the 2000s, Hayes hosted a Friday night slot on BBC Radio 5 Live and returned to LBC on Sunday nights.
Legacy and Impact
Brian Hayes is credited with establishing a modern framework for conversational and confrontational phone-in broadcasting. His respectful and engaging style set a standard in radio communication.
He tragically passed away on November 30, 2025, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of broadcasting.