Vidar Lønn-Arnesen has Passed Away

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear father and husband, who suddenly left us today after a short illness, the family writes in a press release to NRK.

Lønn-Arnesen first appeared in public in 1962, when he created the program Sommerlørdag ved fjord for the state channel. He also worked as a presenter in the youth series Popkorn, before later leading programs such as Zigzag and Skru.

– He was one of the most useful entertainment employees NRK has ever had. He was versatile in all forms and he did a great deed for NRK throughout his work, says Dan Børge Akerø to Nettavisen.

– I have been both a colleague and manager of Vidar. He was a role model, adds the former NRK presenter.

Erik Lønn-Arnesen

Erik Lønn-Arnesen (born November 12, 1947 – died January 26, 2024) was a Norwegian radio and television personality. He’s remembered for his significant contributions to Norwegian popular music broadcasting.

Lønn-Arnesen began his career at NRK (Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation) in 1976. initially, he worked with youth programs. In 1991, he transitioned to the entertainment department of state television. There, he became the host of the popular program Da Capo, a role he maintained for a decade.

He then hosted Norsktoppen in 2001, remaining with the show until its conclusion in 2008. His final hosting position was on Alle tiders blinkskudt on P1.

Colleagues remember Lønn-Arnesen as a kind and considerate coworker. Ole Torp, a former NRK journalist and presenter, emphasized Lønn-Arnesen’s dedication to popular music. Torp stated his work promoting pop and rock music in Norway was invaluable.

Lønn-Arnesen retired from NRK in 2010. He received the King’s medal of Merit in recognition of his service to the corporation and his prominent role in Norwegian broadcasting.