José María Íñigo — Spanish journalist and television presenter

Career in radio

After returning to Spain he settled in Madrid and established himself as a presenter of influential radio music programmes. He worked on programmes such as El Musiquero and El Gran Musical, and contributed to the popular pop station Los 40 Principales. Through these shows he helped introduce contemporary international and Spanish pop acts to a broad listening audience and participated in the development of modern music formats for Spanish radio. His knowledge of popular music, ease on air and ability to connect with younger listeners made him a trusted voice for decades.

Television and magazine programmes

Íñigo made a successful transition to television, presenting magazine-format programmes and cultural shows. He combined journalistic skills with an accessible presenting style and appeared on Televisión Española (TVE) in a variety of roles, including special broadcasts and entertainment coverage. His television work extended beyond music: he took part in cultural debates, interviews and live events that required a presenter comfortable with both information and entertainment formats.

Eurovision Song Contest

One of Íñigo’s best-known long-term associations was with the Eurovision Song Contest. He announced Spain’s jury results in the mid-1970s and, many years later, returned to the contest as a television commentator for TVE. He provided commentary for Spanish viewers in recent editions, including the period between the 2011 contest and the 2017 contest. His involvement with the Eurovision broadcast made him a familiar voice for audiences following the annual competition across Europe, and linked his name to a major international music event. For general background on the event see the Eurovision Song Contest.

Personal life and death

Íñigo lived much of his professional life in Madrid, continuing to appear on radio and television into his later years. He died in Madrid on 5 May 2018 at the age of 75 after a battle with lung cancer; his illness and passing were reported widely in the Spanish press. For information about the disease and support resources see lung cancer resources.

Legacy

José María Íñigo is remembered for his contributions to popularising contemporary music on Spanish radio and for his approachable television presence. He influenced succeeding generations of presenters by blending journalistic rigour with an easy conversational manner on air. His long association with events such as Eurovision and his work on both radio and television secure him a place among notable Spanish broadcasters of the late 20th and early 21st centuries.

• Born: 4 June 1942, Bilbao
• Early career abroad: lived and worked from London
• Main professional base: Madrid
• Radio highlights: El Musiquero, El Gran Musical, Los 40 Principales
• Eurovision involvement: announced jury results in the 1970s; TV commentary including between 2011 and 2017 — see Eurovision
• Died: 5 May 2018 in Madrid (lung cancer) — more