Glyn Lewis, the BBC One announcer known for his long career in Welsh broadcasting, has died at the age of 53. The news was met with an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Lewis was a familiar presence on television for more than 27 years, regularly introducing programmes on BBC One and BBC Two in Wales. He joined the broadcaster in 1995, beginning with BBC Radio Cymru before moving into TV presentation as a continuity announcer and director.
Drag career and activism
Away from the BBC, Lewis was widely known for his drag personas Edna Clouds and Sister Gloria Snockers, becoming a much-loved figure in Wales' LGBTQIA+ community. As Sister Gloria Snockers, he was a member of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, an activist and charitable order founded in San Francisco in 1979. He later became a founding member of the Cardiff house, established in 2017 and known as the House of the Chiffon Borg from 2020.
The group supports the LGBTQIA+ community, raises money for charities and promotes sexual health awareness. Following his death, Lewis's family shared an emotional tribute celebrating his unique personality and the joy he brought to others.
Tributes from BBC Wales
Tributes flooded in from BBC Wales staff and members of the LGBT+ community, with many remembering Lewis as someone who was "proudly and authentically himself" and brought "warmth, colour and kindness" wherever he went.
Interim BBC Wales director Garmon Rhys also paid tribute, praising both his professionalism and compassion. Rhys said: "We are deeply saddened by the loss of Glyn Lewis. Glyn joined the BBC in 1995, beginning 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. Glyn was a deeply caring person, 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."
