Beloved Broadcaster Terry Wogan Dead At 77

The iconic radio host died after a "short but brave battle with cancer," his family said.

Terry Wogan, an Irish radio and TV broadcaster whose career spanned five decades, died on Sunday, his family said. He was 77.

In a statement to BBC News, Wogan's family said he died "after a short but brave battle with cancer."

"He passed away surrounded by his family," they added. "While we understand he will be missed by many, the family ask that their privacy is respected at this time."

Wogan, who was born in Limerick, Ireland, hosted the BBC Radio 2 breakfast show "The Terry Wogan Show" from 1972 to 1984, and "Wake Up to Wogan" from 1993 to 2009. He also had a chat show called "Wogan" on Radio 1.

The veteran broadcaster was a commentator for the "Eurovision Song Contest" for many years in the U.K., and hosted the BBC "Children in Need" telethon since it began in 1980.

Prior to working for the BBC -- where he spent the majority of his career -- Wogan was a newsreader and announcer for Ireland's Radio Eireann.

During his final Radio 2 broadcast, Wogan told fans (whom he dubbed the TOGs, or Terry's Old Geezers and Gals): "The years together with you have not only been a pleasure but a privilege. You have allowed me to share your lives with you. When you tell me how important I have been in your lives it's very moving. You have been every bit as important in mine."

Famous fans and friends of Wogan's, including BBC Radio 2 presenter and new "Top Gear" host Chris Evans and singer Alison Moyet, were quick to share tributes to the iconic broadcaster on social media.

BBC One also announced that Monday night's episode of "The One Show" would pay tribute to Wogan.

In 2005, Wogan was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II.

He is survived by his wife, Helen, and their three children. The couple also had a child who died in infancy.

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