South African journalist and famous radio industry figure Mark Pilgrim died on March 5, 2023, in Johannesburg, encircled by his loved ones, at the age of 53. Lloyd Madurai, the Managing Director of HOT 102.7 FM, verified the sad news in a Facebook post that read:
“I had to break the news to you with tremendous sorrow. Mark Pilgrim, our hero, sibling, and much-loved radio celebrity, died of cancer this morning at 10:45 a.m. He fought bravely until the bitter end.”
He was best known for creating and hosting his award-winning eponymous program, which airs Monday through Saturday on HOT 102.7 FM. In February 2022, Mark was identified with stage 4 lung cancer. He subsequently disclosed that it had expanded to his tibia, the base of his vertebrae, and lymph glands and that he was being treated for it.
Internet users pay Mark Pilgrim heartfelt honors, saying “Your existence was a spark”
Online users turned to social media to show their sorrow over the broadcaster’s death. They were saddened by his passing and expressed their sympathies to Mark’s family, particularly his fiancée Adrienne. Many people said it was an “honor” to know him and call him a friend.
Throughout his battle with the disease, the 53-year-old kept his fans up to speed on his progress, providing information about the illness, his complaints, and his optimism for recovery. In response to one of his tweets, user Brett @BrettFishA stated:
“Except for those on these Twitter sidewalks, I feel like Mark Pilgrim’s passing has struck me harder than any other individual I’ve never met before. Just heartbroken. He welcomed us all into his agonizing path, making us feel as if we really knew him. Kindness and peace to everyone who had the opportunity.”
Twitter users also shared their best recollections from listening to the radio presenter. Here are some remarks from users on the microblogging site about their loss:
Went thru Mark Pilgrim’s IG page & studied his journey with cancer… so triggering & emotional.
What a strong human being.
We take life for granted. We forget we’re all on borrowed time. Appreciate every day.
Live full. Die empty.https://t.co/Ta1NqrUYJq#RIPMarkPilgrim pic.twitter.com/IyquHOnByu
— Penuel The Black Pen (@GodPenuel) March 5, 2023
Rest in perfect peace Mark Pilgrim 🤍🕊 pic.twitter.com/BwXch4uegz
— Mr Smeg (@MichaelBucwa) March 6, 2023
Mark Pilgrim had been identified with stage 3 testicular cancer earlier.
The 53-year-old radio presenter was well-liked by his colleagues and had an illustrious and prosperous career in both radio and television. Mark previously worked at 5FM, KFM KFM, and HOT 91.9 FM before joining HOT 102.7 FM. He received two SA Radio Awards for his efforts on the latter. Following his cancer diagnosis in 2022, he disclosed to his followers:
“Chuck Norris isn’t me. Yeah, I am terrified. I am also powerful. Both feelings are present at the same time. I’m in the hands of wonderful physicians and encircled by affection. This is my tale. And there will be more episodes.”
Mark Pilgrim quickly began recording his experience, including his time with Covid-19, his daily life with friends and family, and his recuperation from the operations. Mark proposed to his companion, Adrianne Watkins, who had been by his side since the news was first disclosed, determined to make the most of the time he had left.
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