Tributes pour in for Dame Jenni Murray, BBC Radio presenter and former host of Women’s Hour, after she dies aged 75

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Tributes have been paid to beloved broadcaster, Dame Jenni Murray, who has died at the age of 75.

Jenni Murray hosted BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour for more than 30 years, starting in 1987 and leaving in 2020. She was the program’s longest-serving host.

BBC Director-General Tim Davie was among the first to praise Murray, calling her a “broadcasting icon” who connected with viewers through her kindness, smarts, and bravery, making them feel comfortable and welcome.

He said they would all miss her greatly, adding that she would be remembered for the important discussions she sparked, the causes she fought for, and the positive impact she had on so many people.

Mohit Bakaya, a leader at BBC Radio 4 and in charge of spoken-word audio, shared similar feelings, calling Murray a powerful and well-loved voice in British broadcasting known for being both warm and unafraid.

Bakaya shared that Jenni had a huge impact on national discussions during her many years with Woman’s Hour, bringing intelligence, thoroughness, and a special ability to connect with people. She leaves behind a lasting legacy for listeners across generations. Radio 4 is incredibly thankful for her exceptional work, and she will be greatly missed.

Mark Urban, writing on X (formerly Twitter), expressed his sadness at the passing of Jenni Murray. He recalled working with her at BBC Southampton in 1984 when he was a trainee producer.

“She was whip smart, always cut through the BS, and her journalism was guided by empathy.”

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Baroness Harriet Harman, former deputy leader of the Labour Party, praised broadcaster Jenni Murray, saying her contribution to the women’s movement – and its impact on politics, the economy, and society – was immense. Harman described Murray as the voice of the movement on the airwaves, adding that everyone owes her a debt of gratitude. She finished with a message of remembrance.

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Talent management firm Knight Ayton remembered Dame Jenni Murray as a dedicated and groundbreaking professional. A spokesperson for the firm told Sky News they began working with Jenni in 2020, as she transitioned from her long-standing role at Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour, and expressed their sadness at her passing.

Staying true to her playful personality, she unexpectedly joined the cast of ITV’s The Real Full Monty that year, earning widespread praise. The news of her involvement was a major headline. She participated simply to raise awareness and encourage women to get checked for breast cancer.

Jenni Murray recently returned to the BBC to host ‘Jenni Murray’s Women Composers’ on Radio 3. Everyone who worked with her enjoyed the experience; she’s a dedicated professional and a trailblazer in her field.

Over the past three decades, she interviewed every British prime minister, and she connected with people from all walks of life – from powerful political figures to the heartbroken parents of Madeleine McCann. Her early career even included an encounter with Hollywood legend Bette Davis.

Charles Wheeler, a renowned foreign correspondent, once said that Jenni had ‘the most beautiful voice on the radio – ever’.

Authors

Katelyn MensahSenior Entertainment Writer

Katelyn Mensah writes about entertainment for TopMob, covering everything from popular TV shows and reality competitions to impactful documentaries. Before joining TopMob, she worked at The Tab, where she reported on reality TV and celebrity news. She has a degree in Journalism.

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2026-03-21 14:34