How many children did DJ Johnnie Walker have? All about the family as former pirate radio DJ passes away

Johnnie Walker, the much-loved BBC radio disc jockey and one-time pirate station star, has died at the age of 79 after a long struggle with lung disease. Walker had almost served six decades in the music business.

Born Peter Waters Dingley in 1945, Johnnie Walker started his career in the 1960s at pirate radio stations, including Radio Caroline. His move to the BBC in 1969 began a long and successful association with the corporation.

Johnnie Walker had two children with Frances Kum - a daughter, Beth, and a son, Sam. The couple had divorced, though the particulars of this, including when it happened, were kept private. In December 2002, Walker married Tiggy Jarvis, who was with him in his final years.

Though not much information about Beth and Sam's day-to-day lives is available, the siblings have attended many significant family events over the years, showing support for their father's illustrious career (Yahoo Entertainment).

Walker, in an interview, shared his struggles alongside his kids, as he stated that he and his son Sam used to sleep in his old Chevrolet estate car. This was during a time when Walker had just left Radio 1 and had moved to America.

Johnnie Walker was best known as the presenter of two flagship shows on BBC Radio 2, Sounds of the 70s and The Rock Show.

Walker was also known for appearing in the film The Boat That Rocked. He also got an MBE in 2006 for his contribution to broadcasting. MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) is a British honor given for outstanding achievement in the areas related to arts, sciences, public service, and charity.

Johnnie Walker's wife and peers react to his death

Walker’s wife, Tiggy Jarvis, was a frequent contributor in the early days of Walker’s radio shows, lending a personal touch to his broadcasts. In an emotional tribute, she described great pride in her husband.

She remembered how he was so strong and continued to broadcast almost until the end of his career. She said:

“couldn’t be more proud of how he kept broadcasting almost to the end. He remained his charming, humorous self to the end, what a strong amazing man. It has been a rollercoaster ride from start to finish.”

The world of broadcasting and Walker’s colleagues have honored his memory (Deadline). BBC Director General Tim Davie described Walker as a “pop radio pioneer and a champion of great music,” highlighting his “extraordinary connection” with audiences over many decades.

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Helen Thomas, the head of BBC Radio 2, praised Walker’s impact on radio, saying his passion for featuring the artists and music he loved was “undeniable.”

Other musicians and broadcasters, including Robert Plant, Ken Bruce, and Joan Armatrading, contributed emotional tributes, remembering Johnnie Walker’s integrity and kindness.

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