Johannesburg - Primedia Broadcasting has confirmed that veteran journalist and news anchor, Ian Crewe has died.
It's understood that he was admitted to hospital on Sunday morning with heart and lung issues. It's being reported that he was in a critical condition last night and passed away.
Ian, who has become a household name in South Africa, will be remembered for his witty sense of humour, teaching younger reporters and as the overnight anchor on Cape Talk and Talk Radio 702, he found friends in many insomniacs.
Last year he was conducted into the 2014 MTN Radio Awards Hall of Fame. Ian's life partner, Andre, was in the Talk Radio 702 studios today speaking about his loss. "It was teaching young children that want to go into radio and training them. Yesterday morning was the last time he spoke to me. He was holding my hands and talking to me. I was hugging him."
Condolences from colleagues, industry insiders and listeners have poured in this morning.
Sad about the passing of Ian Crewe. I enjoyed working with him as a cub journo. Condolences to @ewnupdates, @Radio702 and @CapeTalk family.
— Lester Kiewit (@lesterkk) December 30, 2015
Condolences to all my former @702 and @ewnupdates colleagues on the passing of midnight news man Ian Crewe. #RIPIanCrewe
— Patrick Conroy (@PatrickConroySA) December 30, 2015
RIP to Ian Crewe. I remember his most distinctive voice when he said "Good evening, I'm Ian Crewe."
— Veap (@VelempiniN) December 30, 2015
Devastated that Ian Crewe has died. Such a funny,smart man,always willing to share his experience and knowledge. I can't believe he is gone.
— samantha cowen (@samcowen) December 30, 2015
@KoketsoSachane @Radio702 WOW guys! Ian Crewe is gone? Condolences.. Y'all's early morning banter WAS top notch #RIP
— DJ Fresh (Big Dawg) (@DJFreshSA) December 30, 2015