Veteran radio DJ – and the host of Big Brother South Africa and Africa – Mark Pilgrim has passed on Sunday, 5 March. His death was confirmed by HOT 102.7FM in an online statement.
Mark Pilgrim lived bravely, courageously and graciously right until the very end — and regardless of hardship he continued to inspire South Africans.
After being diagnosed with testicular cancer in 1988, and going into remission, Pilgrim was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in March 2022. A journey he shared regularly with his fans on social media and through a YouTube series.
Mark Pilgrim’s contribution to South Africa’s media landscape extends far beyond the mic and airwaves of HOT 102.7FM. Not only did he host several radio shows on 5FM, 94.7 Highveld Stereo, 94.5 Kfm, and Hot919, he was also a regular on our TV screens.
As a DJ, voiceover artist, radio and TV host, MC and motivational speaker, Pilgrim is a household name in South Africa. He has won numerous SA Radio Awards for best weekend and daytime show and he was inducted into the Radio Awards Hall of Fame in 2021.
Tributes for Mark Pilgrim
Very sad news of the passing of legendary broadcaster Mark Pilgrim. He fought a tough fight and inspired many in the process…and during his many years on radio. #RIPMark
— Gareth Cliff (@GarethCliff) March 5, 2023
Soulja. Brave. Warrior. RIP Mark Pilgrim.🕯❇😔🌹 pic.twitter.com/weczQSwSUZ
— Mynie Grové (@amagroove) March 5, 2023
HOT 102.7FM is mourning the death of renowned broadcaster Mark Pilgrim and joins the South African radio industry in paying tribute to one of its most respected and loved presenters.
— HOT102.7FM (@Hot1027FM) March 5, 2023
Full press release here:https://t.co/uuYgbgKUFO pic.twitter.com/mzCQrCCDtf
Deeply saddened by the passing of Mark Pilgrim. He gave humanity his best and fought a good fight. Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and fans. May his great soul rest in peace #RIPMark #RIPMarkPilgrim💔🕊 https://t.co/CJiFe4w0OA
— Prof Thuli Madonsela #KindnessBuilds (@ThuliMadonsela3) March 5, 2023
R.I.P. Mark Pilgrim 🙏#MarkPilgrim
— John Haigh (@good_heavens00) March 5, 2023
Thank you for the memories
The laughter, music
Times & Tings!
Be at Peace ☮️✌️ pic.twitter.com/vqfqOny0CO
Mark Pilgrim was born for radio. Your voice will be missed. Thank you so much for sharing us your journey. Rest well legend. #RIPMarkPilgrim ❤️🙏🕊️
— Nkanyezi (@NkanyeziKubheka) March 5, 2023
RIP Mark Pilgrim
— Eusebius McKaiser (@Eusebius) March 5, 2023
You, Sir, *lived through illness* till the end.
A great creative and audio legend.
Condolences to friends, family and colleagues.
❤️ pic.twitter.com/MTUsMIAhNj
On rare occasions, a special type of person displays the courage and strength to take on the world even when hope seems lost.
— Paul Rotherham (@PaulRotherhamZA) March 5, 2023
Mark, you had me believing you were going to win this fight.
I'm so so sorry.
Sincere condolences to your family.
Rest in peace my friend.#MarkPilgrim