Rock DJ Jim Ladd dies as tributes pour in for music legend who inspired Tom Petty song

SiriusXM host Jim Ladd has died at the age of 75 after suffering a heart attack at his home in Los Angeles, with tributes now pouring in for the iconic radio DJ

Jim Ladd, who hosted SiriusXM‘s classic rock channel, has died at the age of 75.

The iconic radio DJ suffered a heart attack at his Los Angeles home on December 17, SiriusXM confirmed in a statement. Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, the broadcaster said: "Radio icon Jim Ladd, who for over 50 years championed classic rock and interviewed many of the greatest artists in his Los Angeles studios and on SiriusXM’s Deep Tracks channel, passed away on Sunday, December 17."

His colleague DJ Meg Griffin also announced the sad news at the start of Jim's daily free-form music show Deep Tracks. Meg hosted in his place on Monday.

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"He never stopped caring," Meg said as she paid tribute to her friend and colleague. She told listeners that he died with his wife Helene Hodge-Ladd by his side before adding: "He delivered the truth. He lived for the music, and I am blessed to have worked with him."

Tributes have been pouring in for Jim on social media, with comedian Richard Lewis posting: "God. I loved him. What a great pal. He was the rock dj voice of his generation. So caring! My heart breaks for his angelic wife."

The official account for Tom Petty, who wrote a song about Jim, said: "Tom respected and admired Jim Ladd and considered him a friend. He inspired the song “The Last DJ” and his insights into rock and roll were priceless. Jim’s voice will be missed on the airwaves. Our family joins his in mourning his loss."

The Doors posted: "The Doors family is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of beloved rock DJ, Jim Ladd, who died of a sudden heart attack peacefully at home with his wife Helene at his side. Jim, with his electric persona and cool voice, was an essential part of the culture of rock & roll.

"Jim’s legendary interviews with Ray, John and Robby on The Doors and Morrison were later released as NO ONE HERE GETS OUT ALIVE, which still stands as the most definitive interview in the history of the group. Rest easy, Mr. Ladd."

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