The news of Today FM DJ Tony Fenton’s passing has sent shockwaves throughout Ireland.
The iconic music man had a long battle with prostate cancer and passed away earlier today.
As news broke there has been an outpouring of tributes from several figures of the music industry, such as Bressie and Ronan Keating, who have paid tribute to a legend of Irish radio.
Sad news: Tony passed away today | VIPIRELAND.COM
In a special tribute on Today FM long time friend Ian Dempsey said he was shocked by the news.
“I just can’t believe it, we all knew he was sick for quite a while but we never expected this. We’re all in shock,” he said.
“Tony became a fantastic friend of mine. One of the proudest moments for me was when I came in and there was a huge sign all over the building and it said ‘Today FM the new
home of Tony Fenton’ and I was so proud because he was my friend.
“He was on a lot of steroids towards the end and he was very concerned about losing his voice, he told the doctors he wanted to be off them. He was always talking about coming back on the air, it’s very sad,” he added.
Saddened: Ian Dempsey is in shock | VIPIRELAND.COM
“I think his legacy will be the positivity. Tony was always positive on air, the guy you got on the radio that was Tony, he was Mr Positivity. That’s why we’re so shocked about this,” Ian added.
“Everything always worked out for Tony, and we really thought this would work out for him. It’s so shocking and so raw.”
Meanwhile Voice of Ireland coach Bressie lead the tributes online, tweeting: “My god I just heard about Tony Fenton. What tragic heartbreaking news.”
Online tributes: Stars have been taking to Twitter
Ronan Keating wrote: “Tony Fenton you will be missed. There will forever be a void on irish radio that will never be filled. #yourethewinner you always were. X”
Ronan’s Boyzone bandmate Keith Duffy said: “Very Sad to hear about the passing of the legend and true music lover Tony Fenton. A sad day. And that voice! Rest easy Tony much love xxxx”
TV3 host Lisa Cannon also wrote: “So sad to hear about the passing of legend @tonyfenton a brilliant broadcaster @RTE2fm and a great mentor in radio #RIPTonyFenton.”
Support: Stars are writing tributes to the DJ
“A legend, a gent & genuinely just an all round nice guy. RIP Tony Fenton. You will be missed,” TV3’s Martin King added.
A huge supporter of Irish talent, Tony received tributes from Irish bands throughout the day.
“Devastated to hear the news about Tony Fenton. Such a lovely man with a genuine enthusiasm for music & supporting Irish music in particular,” The Coronas tweeted.
Irish music: Tony always supported new talent | PHOTOCALL IRELAND
The radio community has been heartbroken by the tragic news and host of radio presenters took to Twitter to share their sadness.
“When I came to @rte2fm Tony Fenton was welcoming, encouraging and such a nice guy to me. My sincerest condolences to his family, loved ones,” Rick O’Shea wrote.
2FM DJ Paddy McKenna wrote: ” Rest in peace Tony Fenton, 53 is too young. A prime-timer on both @RTE2fm & @todayfmofficial and a very sad day for all radio.”
And 2FM star Louise McSharry, who is currently battling cancer herself, wrote:
“So very sad to hear of the passing of Tony Fenton. What an incredible career, and a very kind man on the occasion I met him… f***ing cancer.”
Kindness: Dermot and Dave also gave a tribute | PATRICK O’LEARY
Meanwhile Today FM star Dermot Whelan thanked Tony for his generosity:
“Rest in peace, Tony Fenton, and thanks for your kindness and support for me and @DaveTodayFM. A pleasure to play your favourite tunes today.
Today FM confirmed they will be paying tribute to the radio star throughout the day through music.
