Manchester radio legend James Stannage has died aged 76. His son, Darren Stannage, confirmed the news on Monday (March 30), revealing that his father died after a year-long battle with cancer.
Darren described his father as "someone who meant so much to so many people in Manchester", following an impressive career that spanned around five decades.
Darren, who works as a reporter for Sky Sports News Radio, said: "He died peacefully this morning at MRI after battling cancer for over a year," sharing that his father was listening to music and "surrounded by people that loved him".
James' career in radio began in the 1970s, presenting his own late-night phone-in show for Piccadilly Radio. He went on to work at other local radio stations such as TFM Radio before returning to Piccadilly Radio, later known as Key 103, in 1989.
He built a loyal fanbase through his distinctive, outspoken style, with his shows becoming a platform where callers could debate a wide range of topics, from sport to politics.
The fiery exchanges became a defining feature of The James Stannage Show, however, not everyone agreed, with the Bishop of Salford publicly branding him a bad influence.
Key 103 received several fines during Stannage's 20-year career on the station, including one for £15,000. He also came under fire for describing First World War soldiers as "thick and ignorant".
Despite the controversy, James became one of the most recognisable voices across Greater Manchester.
Tributes have flooded in for the radio DJ online, with one writing: "RIP local radio legend James Stannage. Many of us out there hold great memories of listening to him growing up in the Manchester area."
Another shared: "So sad to hear about the passing of radio legend James Stannage. He was one of only a few radio heroes of mine and truly influenced me greatly. I adored his shows and he's been sadly missed ever since his last radio prog. I'll raise a glass to you tonight James. RIP."
A third posted: "Gutted to hear that James Stannage has passed away. A massive part of my childhood, and the best talk show I ever listened to. RIP, legend."
This is a breaking showbiz story, the /showbiz team will be updating this story with the latest information as soon as we receive it. For further updates, please refresh the page
You can also get email updates on the day’s biggest TV stories straight to your inbox by signing up for our newsletters.
Get all the very best headlines, pictures, opinion and video on the day’s top showbiz stories by following Express.co.uk every time you see our name.
Follow Express on Google News - CLICK HERE
Follow Express on Apple News -_ CLICK HERE__ available on Apple devices_
Follow Express on _Flipboard - _CLICK HERE and click follow
You can also sign up for Twitter alerts for breaking news and all the latest updates by following @Daily_Express, or for the latest TV and showbiz news, follow @expressceleb
Keep up-to-date with your must-see TV stories, features, videos and pictures throughout the day by following us on Facebook at
