Alan Yentob Death: Sender and BBC Executive dies at the age of 78

Alan Yentob, broadcaster, program manufacturer and long -standing BBC manager, died at the age of 78.

The news was shared by Yentob's family, who said he died on Saturday, May 24th.

“Bella and I held the promise of something unexpected every day with Alan every day. Our life was exciting, it was exciting.

“He was curious, funny, annoying, late and creative in every cell of his body.

In a long statement, the general director of BBC, Tim Davie, said: “Alan Yentob was a highly towering figure in British radio and art. A creative strength and a cultural visionary.

“For almost 60 years, Alan campaigned for originality, risks and artistic ambition. From the arena to the presentation, from the commissioning of the groundbreaking drama to the awarding of new voices, his influence is integrated into the structure of British cultural life.”

Davie said Yentob believed “deeply in the role of BBC as a home for creativity, curiosity and arts that are accessible to everyone”.

He described the broadcaster as an “unforgettable presence” that “committed, funny and endlessly curious. He brought energy and warmth into every conversation. He was generous with his time, violent in his beliefs and joy in the work of others.”

Davie continued: “Working with Alan should be inspired and encouraged to think greater.

“Above all, Alan was a real original. His passion was not performative – it was personal. He believed in the power of culture to enrich, challenge us. We have lost one of the great creative spirits of our time. But his programs, his voice and generations he inspired will live on.

“Our thoughts are with his family and his relatives. Alan will be very missing as a friend, colleague and one of the decisive characters in the history of British culture.”

More to follow …