Glyn Lewis, a BBC continuity announcer whose voice was a regular presence on BBC1 and BBC2 in Wales for more than 27 years, has died at the age of 53. His family confirmed his death in a statement, saying they were devastated by the loss.
Lewis joined the BBC in 1995, beginning with BBC Radio Cymru before moving into TV presentation as a continuity announcer and director. He was also known for his drag alter egos, Edna Clouds and Sister Gloria Snockers.
Charity work and drag legacy
As Sister Gloria, Lewis was part of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, a charitable group founded in San Francisco in 1979. He helped establish the Cardiff chapter, which launched in 2017 and was renamed the House of the Chiffon Borg by 2020. The organisation works within the LGBTQIA+ community, offering assistance, raising money for good causes and championing sexual health education.
Family tributes
In a statement, Lewis's family said: "We are devastated by the loss of Glyn. From a very young age, he refused to be defined, sauntering through life with a dry wit and a wicked look in his eye, spreading chaos and laughter like glitter. Generous, charismatic, talented and utterly irreplaceable. You could call him a force of nature but he wasn't that. He was a force of Glyn. We are so proud of him."
BBC Wales colleagues and people across the LGBT+ community shared tributes, describing Lewis as "proudly and authentically himself" and someone who brought "warmth, colour and kindness" to the office every day.
BBC Wales tribute
Interim director of BBC Wales Garmon Rhys said: "We are deeply saddened by the loss of Glyn Lewis. Glyn joined the BBC in 1995, starting his career with BBC Radio Cymru before becoming a continuity announcer and director in TV Presentation. Over many years, audiences came to know and appreciate his recognisable voice, creative scripts and distinctive presence."
He added: "Glyn was a deeply caring individual, dedicated to delivering the very best on air and committed to supporting those around him. He was a welcoming and reassuring presence to colleagues, especially new members of the team, and was loved by everyone who worked with him. Proudly and authentically himself, Glyn brought warmth, colour and kindness to BBC Cymru Wales every day. He will be greatly missed. Our thoughts are with Glyn's family, friends and loved ones at this difficult time."
