BBC Radio 2 DJ Trevor Nelson has announced he is taking a break from his radio show commitments following some follow-up tests, as he deals with health concerns
Trevor Nelson has opened up about his ongoing health battle, as he confirmed he’s stepping away from his Radio 2 programme. The veteran radio presenter, 62, revealed he’s taking time out from his professional duties following some additional medical examinations.
While he chose not to reveal the specifics of his health concerns, he explained he was focusing on his recovery and “being back to 100%”. Taking to Instagram, he shared: “I wanted to let my followers, radio listeners and all my Soul Nation party-people know that I’m going to be taking a little break from my work commitments.
“Some of you may already have noticed that I’ve not been on my daily Radio 2 slot this week. After a routine check-up I was advised to have some follow up tests. As a result, I will be taking some further time off.”
He continued: “As I’m sure you can appreciate with health issues it’s important to deal with facts and not speculate. So I’m concentrating on getting better, being back to 100% me and to getting back behind the mic and the decks. Trevor.”
The BBC’s director of music, Lorna Clarke, responded: “Everyone at BBC Radio 2 and BBC Radio 1Xtra wishes Trevor a very speedy recovery and we all look forward to him returning to his shows whenever he is ready.”
Just this week, Trevor was honoured with a special award at the annual TRIC Awards ceremony, recognising his extensive career in the radio and television sectors. His illustrious three-decade-long journey with the BBC began when he transitioned from KISS FM to Radio 1 in 1996, where he hosted the UK’s first national R&B show, reports the Mirror.
He later pioneered the first ever national R&B chart show and also contributed to BBC Radio 1Xtra from 2007 onwards. He remained with Radio 1 until 2013, while also taking on a Radio 2 show in 2008, a weekly soul music programme.
In January 2019, Trevor Nelson’s Rhythm Nation debuted on Radio 2 and aired four days a week, before – in early 2025 – he transitioned to the weekday afternoon slot, replacing Scott Mills.
Reflecting recently on his legacy, he shared: “I love going to work, I bounce around the eighth floor like a child. You’d never think I was a senior in that environment. I’m actually the oldest on daytime. So, I’m the daddy!”.
Listeners can tune in to hear him present The Music is Black concert from Hackney Empire on Sunday night on BBC Radio 2, which was pre-recorded last month. It’s a unique celebration of Black Music in Britain featuring performances from Alison Limerick, Courtney Pine and Omar amongst others.
He co-hosts the show alongside fellow Radio 2 DJ, DJ Spoony.