Hot 1027 News has just released a statement on Twitter confirming the popular South African DJ Mark Pilgrim (53), passed away this morning.

He has been publicly sharing his battle with cancer. Social media posts mistakenly announced his death in February after a man also named Mark Pilgrim, passed away in the United States and a Facebook post by his brother-in-law, was assumed to be of South Africa’s Pilgrim.

Pilgrim passed away at home with his fiancée Adrienne at his side, says Hot 1027 News.

He was well known on South African radio channels including 5Fm and 94.7 Highveld Stereo. He was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in February 2022 and documented his battle with the illness on social media.

HOT1027 DJ Mark Pilgrim lost his battle with cancer this morning.

He fought valiantly to the very end.

Mark passed peacefully with his fiancé Adrienne at home.

His family thank you for being part of his journey, for loving him, celebrating him and supporting him always

— Hot 1027 News (@Hot1027News) March 5, 2023

Condolences have been streaming in after news of his passing broke. Here are some of the messages by Twitter users:

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

My heart is shattered. Mark Pilgrim has just passed away. My friend, you fought so hard. 💔

— Brent Lindeque (@BrentLindeque) March 5, 2023

Terribly sad news that Mark Pilgrim has passed away. He fought so courageously.

Mark was always so friendly, so professional and just a pleasure to work with.

Thoughts are with his fiancé, his daughters and his colleagues. May his memory be a blessing to you all.

— Mandy Wiener (@MandyWiener) March 5, 2023

Couldn't imagine worse news today… Don't have the words to properly express how much I will miss Mark on my radio. Strength to Adrienne and the girls… Today, god has a DJ.

— Greg Rudram (@greg_rudram) March 5, 2023