Brit TV star and MTV legend Dave Kendall dies aged 63 as tributes pour in

DAVE Kendall, the host and creator of iconic music show 120 minutes has died aged 63. The tragic news was confirmed on Tuesday by his MTV co-host Matt Pinfield but his cause of death is unknown. Matt wrote in a tribute on social media that he was “heartbroken” to hear of Dave’s death. He said: “Dave was one of the true believers. Long before alternative music found its way into the mainstream, he was there every week on 120 Minutes, introducing people to bands that would go on to define an era.” Sign up for the Showbiz newsletter Thank you! The host added: “He didn’t just host a show. He gave a home to music that deserved to be heard. “He loved the music, respected the artists, and connected with fans in a way that always felt authentic. “That’s a rare gift. Sending love to everyone whose life he touched. Rest easy, Dave.” MTV also shared a tribute, the channel said: “We’re saddened to learn of the passing of Dave Kendall, the creator and host of MTV’s alternative music series, 120 Minutes. “Dave’s passion for the genre, and his role as a tastemaker in discovering the artists who would shape popular culture, helped make MTV a destination for alternative music.” The statement added: “His impact on music, MTV, and generations of fans will not be forgotten.” Most read in Showbiz The British-born DJ began his career on 120 minutes as a producer when the show launched in March 1986. It ran from 1986-2000 and originally aired at midnight on a Sunday night before its popularity meant it was moved to a daytime spot. Dave started hosting in 1988, bringing a passion for indie music having previously writing for Spin and New York Post. The show championed alternative artists from The Ramones to Kate Bush and even showed the world premiere of the Smell’s Like Teen Spirit music video, Nivarna’s breakout single. Dave left before the show was cancelled in 2003 and worked as a freelance music writer alongside hosting talk shows and radio programs, still with a focus on alternative music. He also appeared as a club DJ in New York and London while producing for major TV channels such as Sky and Channel 4. Dave later moved abroad, spending time in Indonesia, Thailand and China where he sub-edited the Bangkok Post and even hosted the paper’s interview podcast. The paper paid tribute to Dave: “His thoughtful and well-prepared conversations with newsmakers, business leaders and public figures earned the respect of colleagues and viewers alike.” Other comments have flooded in on social media, one wrote: “He was the face of my music education. It’s sad to know he’s gone.” A second added: “120 Minutes was the bomb. Opened my music tastes at a young age! I am indebted to this man. What a loss for music fans.” Comment now