Radio legend Trevor 'Big T' Campbell has died after a short illness at the age of 78. Campbell was a household name in Northern Ireland, joining Downtown Radio in 1976. He presented a popular country music show.
Most he hosted a nightly show on sister station on Downtown Country as recently as this time last week, before falling ill. Fellow presenter Jason Hughes stepped in for him.
Downtown Radio confirmed Campbell's death on social media. Their post read: "We're incredibly saddened to announce that our friend and colleague Trevor Campbell has passed away age 78.
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"We'll miss you greatly. Rest In Peace Big T."
Sky News' David Bleven said on X: "An absolute legend - on and off air. Candy will be waiting at the pearly gates to make sure T behaves, or do her best to. Oh the memories..."
Downtown Radio colleague Stuart Robinson took to X with a heartfelt statement.
"The entire Downtown team are devastated at the news our beloved friend and colleague Trevor Campbell (Big T) has died at the age of 78 following a short illness."
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Robinson shared a longer statement in which described Campbell as "a pioneer" and "a trailblazer".
"Trevor loved and lived for the radio and radio loved him," Robinson's statement read. "He was still on-air on his hugely popular show just a few days ago doing what he did best.
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"He is credited with bringing country music to Northern Ireland audiences in the 1970's at a time when no one here knew what it was and in 2015 we created and launched an entire radio station in his honour 'Downtown Country'," he continued.
He is credited with bringing country music to Northern Ireland audiences in the 1970's. (X/Downtown Radio)"It was a particular honour to be with Trevor when he was inducted into the PPI Irish Radio Hall of Fame."
He continued: "Much more will be said about 'Big T' over the coming days and how he impacted the lives of so many people in Northern Ireland across many decades but for now our thoughts are with Trevor's family, friends and the Downtown listeners who loved him so much.
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"We will all miss him so much. Legend x."
Downtown Radio has announced a special tribute show for Campbell to air on the station from 7pm.
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Campbell is survived by his partner Vi and sister Norma.
Campbell interviewed some of the biggest names in country music throughout his career including Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Kris Kristofferson and Willie Nelson.
Belfast singer Dale Armstrong labelled Campbell a "broadcasting legend" and said he was "extremely saddened" to hear of his death.
"Trevor was a broadcasting legend and was a huge supporter of local country music," he said.
"He played my music on multiple occasions and was always very very complimentary.
"My thoughts go out to his family and friends. RIP Big T, thanks for everything."
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