Andy Kershaw passed away on April 16, 2026, at the age of 66. His family confirmed the sad news, stating he died around 7.30pm on Thursday evening following a cancer diagnosis earlier this year.

Pioneering broadcaster who championed world music

Kershaw gained fame through his long-running BBC Radio 1 show from 1985 to 2000, where he introduced listeners to global sounds and indie acts they might otherwise never have heard. Many remember his distinctive northern voice and passionate storytelling on air. He often played sessions back to back with John Peel, giving entire evenings of rare sounds to music fans not interested in the regular pop usually favoured by BBC Radio One.

He also notably presented coverage of Live Aid in 1985 and continued broadcasting across BBC platforms for decades, including Radio 3 and documentaries.

In 2025, cancer affected his spine and left him unable to walk. Doctors diagnosed the condition last summer, with a public announcement in January 2026. Kershaw underwent chemotherapy, radiotherapy and other treatments while maintaining positive spirits and plans for more podcasts.

Tributes pour in from fans and colleagues

Social media users quickly shared memories of his impact. One X post noted: “A truly unique voice who introduced so many of us to incredible music from around the world. His passion and storytelling made him unforgettable. Rest in peace, Andy.”

Another user wrote: “He did a lot for African and world music and indie bands back in the ’80s when it was rare to hear an unashamedly northern accent on the BBC.”

A further tribute highlighted his influence: “Andy Kershaw and Charlie Gillet were two wonderful souls and millions of music fans… credit them with broadening our musical horizons… their beautiful influence goes on.”

Hundreds of fans have been sending messages of condolences as well to his older sister and co-BBC radio presenter Liz Kershaw.

Born in Rochdale in 1959, Kershaw built a career that opened doors for non-Western artists in British radio. Colleagues and listeners recall his dedication to eclectic playlists and global discoveries.

Legacy lives on through recordings and podcasts

Kershaw’s later podcast revived elements of his classic shows, allowing new generations to experience his selections. Family members, including sister Liz Kershaw, also a broadcaster, have received messages of support.

His death marks the end of an era for those who delight in world music and alternative radio. Many express gratitude for the sonic journeys, the tales behind them, and the magic discoveries he provided over nearly three decades at the BBC. Kershaw leaves behind two children.

Internationally acclaimed singer Céline Dion has formally announced that she will return to live performance later this year, staging a series of ten concerts in Paris. The news was shared on March 30, coinciding with the artist’s 58th birthday, marking a significant moment in her career after several years away from the stage. 

The concerts are scheduled to take place at La Défense Arena in Nanterre, France, on the outskirts of the French capital. The performances will span from September 12 to  October 14, forming a residency of ten shows over five weeks. 

Dion, who has sold millions of albums worldwide and is one of the best‑selling artists of her generation, confirmed her plans in an emotional message shared on social media. In the video, she thanked her supporters for their ongoing encouragement and expressed her readiness to return to performing in front of a live audience. 

Break from Live Performance

Dion’s announcement comes after a prolonged absence from the concert stage. In December 2022, she revealed that she had been diagnosed with Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS), a rare neurological disorder that affects muscle movement and control. The condition forced Dion to cancel the remainder of her Courage World Tour and significantly reduce her public appearances. 

The singer’s health challenges have been widely documented, and her journey has included both physical rehabilitation and adaptations to her daily life. Despite these difficulties, she has made occasional high‑profile appearances over recent years, such as performing at the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, which demonstrated her continued vocal ability. 

Details of the Paris Residency

The Paris concert series will be her first full set of live shows in nearly six years. It will reflect a residency rather than a traditional tour, with shows scheduled approximately twice a week during the autumn period. A residency enables her to perform multiple concerts in one venue over an extended block of dates. 

Later this year’s concerts are anticipated to attract significant demand from both French and international fans. Pre‑sale registration for tickets is expected to begin in early April, with general ticket sales to follow soon after. 

Significance for Fans and the Music Industry

Dion’s return is significant not only for her large global fan base but also for the wider music industry. She has been absent from major concert stages due to her health, and this series of shows represents a substantial step in her career comeback. The residency format is particularly suited to artists of her stature, allowing for a concentrated schedule of performances in a single city that is accessible to a wide range of audiences. 

La Défense Arena, the venue chosen for the concerts, is one of the largest indoor arenas in Europe and frequently hosts major artists. Its location in the Paris metropolitan area makes it an attractive destination for fans travelling from elsewhere in Europe and beyond. 

For many observers, Dion’s announcement has both cultural and personal resonance. Her music has spanned more than three decades, encompassing a broad repertoire of hits in both English and French. Her voice and performances are widely recognised, and her return to live stages signals a renewed chapter in her artistic life. 

Context and Reception

Fans and industry commentators have welcomed the announcement, noting the endurance it represents in the face of ongoing health struggles. The tours planned in Paris follow a pattern of major residencies by established performers, and tickets are expected to sell rapidly due to the combination of Dion’s international fame and the limited number of performances planned. 

The news has generated substantial attention in French media and internationally. Promotional efforts have already been visible around Paris, with public displays referencing Dion’s music in the days leading up to the official announcement. 

Looking forward to September

Dion’s Paris residency represents her first major engagement of this kind since her diagnosis and subsequent recovery efforts. It is likely to be a focal point of her professional activity for the remainder of the year and may lead to further touring if her health and circumstances allow.

For now, the scheduled dates in Paris offer a clear sign of her return to the concert stage and an opportunity for fans worldwide to experience her performances live once again