When is Comic Relief 2026? TV schedule, sketches and latest news
The fundraising extravaganza is fast approaching.
It's time to get funny for money as Red Nose Day returns for an extraordinary night of comedy, entertainment and fundraising. This year's live show will be more fun and energetic than ever, with live performances, amazing prizes, surprise cameos and must-see sketches, all to raise money to help people access food, shelter and safety. Comic Relief: Funny for Money will once more be broadcast live from MediaCityUK in Salford, and for the very first time, live streamed simultaneously on the official BBC YouTube channel. Davina McCall will return once more to front the extravaganza, and will be joined by Katherine Ryan, Nick Mohammed, Joel Dommett and Catherine Tate as Nan from The Catherine Tate Show, as they get together to present a night of fun! But when will it all be on TV? Read on for everything you need to know about Red Nose Day 2026! When is Red Nose Day 2026? Red Nose Day will air live on Friday 20 March on BBC One and iPlayer. What time is Comic Relief 2026 on TV? It'll be time to get funny for money at 7pm. As ever, it'll be a fundraising extravaganza and will be live on air for a whopping three hours, drawing to a close at 10pm. How to watch Red Nose Day 2026: TV schedule Once more, Red Nose Day is packed with sketches and performances to raise money for Comic Relief, and here is a list of everything announced so far: The Bank Job, starring Alison Hammond and Dermot O'Leary Amandaland sketch bringing together some of TV's most notable Amandas The Traitors: The Movie sequel, starring Iain Stirling, Vicky Pattison, Alison Steadman and Rachel, Stephen and Fiona Katherine Ryan and John Richardson channel their inner Cathy and Heathcliff in a Wuthering Heights sketch We'll keep this page updated as more sketches and musical performances are announced! There will also be a raft of Red Nose Day-themed television prior to and after the big night and on the television to fundraise for Comic Relief. The funny continues as Romesh Ranganathan hosts a special episode of Comic Relief Does The Weakest Link on BBC Two at 10pm. Facing questions will be six comedians all hoping to avoid the walk of shame. On Saturday 21 March a special highlights show from the big night – Comic Relief: More Funny For Money – will air on BBC iPlayer and BBC One. Over on BBC Two at 8:45pm, Comic Relief's Hits and Hidden Gems, will air, showcasing Red Nose Day's rich archive with much-loved performances from artists including Adele, One Direction and The Spice Girls, sitting alongside rarely-seen gems from Sam Smith and John Legend, Helen Mirren and Robbie Coltrane – and Alan Partridge channelling Kate Bush. Since Friday 13 March, Greg James has embarked on an epic 1,000km endurance tandem cycle across the UK to raise life-changing funds for Red Nose Day. The BBC Radio 1 DJ will spend eight relentless days pushing himself to the limit, riding through England and Wales before crossing the finish line in Edinburgh on Friday 20 March. Listeners can tune into BBC Radio 1 and BBC Sounds throughout the week for Radio 1's Longest Ride with Greg James. On Thursday 19 March, The One Show will air an exclusive preview of the biggest sketches and studio moments, including a behind-the-scenes trip to Amandaland and a live look at how rehearsals are going in Salford. On Friday 20 March, Blue Peter will become Red Peter as they join in on the Red Nose Day fun in a special episode. And finally, four digital creators – Ayame, Sarel, Victor Kunda and Specs Gonzalez – will come together to form a real band, stepping outside of their comfort zones and straight into the spotlight for a live performance in The Creator Band for Red Nose Day. What is the Red Nose Day Amandaland sketch? In what will be a hilarious sketch, Lucy Punch and Philippa Dunne will reprise their roles as Amanda and Anne in a short story that sees the duo invited to BBC Broadcasting house for an interview with Sara Cox. But things don't go to plan... Confirmed names to feature include Britain's Got Talent judge Amanda Holden, property expert Amanda Lamb, Coronation Street legend Amanda Barrie, TV presenter Amanda Byram and recent The Traitors contestant Amanda Collier. Where can I buy Red Noses for Comic Relief 2026? Amazon is once more the official home of the Red Nose and they can be purchased from just £2.50. There is also a collector pack with a surprise nose for £12.50, or a multipack of 30 noses for £60. Buy a Comic Relief Red Nose for £2.50 at Amazon This year marks the first ever drawable Design-Yer Nose, and each nose purchased from amazon.co.uk/comicrelief goes towards helping those in need. One famous face getting into the spirit is Kimberly Wyatt, who shared with her followers her very own Pussycat Dolls themed red nose. In an Instagram story, she wrote: “In my Pussycat red nose. Every nose bought on @amazonuk raises money for Comic Relief, so make sure to get yours!” As well as red noses, there's other Red Nose Day merch to buy – from boxes of tissues to badges, and kitchen towel to bucket hats. Red Noses are also available to buy at the Comic Relief shop. A portion of the proceeds from the merchandise will go to Comic Relief to help its work to tackle poverty, provide food, healthcare and safe shelter for people in the UK and around the world. Red Nose Day 2026 airs on Friday 20 March at 7pm on BBC One and iPlayer. Details on how to get involved this Red Nose Day can be found on the Comic Relief website. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. 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Iconic Radio 1 DJ Andy Kershaw confirms cancer diagnosis and is now "unable to walk"
"I am in good spirits, feeling very positive and planning another podcast."
Former Radio 1 DJ Andy Kershaw has revealed that he is battling cancer which is affecting his spinal column and has left him "unable to walk". Kershaw's friend and podcast producer Peter Everett shared the news on Facebook this week, confirming that the broadcaster has been receiving treatment including chemotherapy, radiotherapy and physiotherapy. Fans had been expressing their concern for the 66-year-old as no new episodes of his self-titled podcast had been posted for more than six months. Everett shared a comment from Kershaw himself, who despite his diagnosis had maintained his typical sense of humour. "I am in good spirits, feeling very positive and planning another podcast," he said. "I am determined not to die before Benjamin Netanyahu, Vladimir Putin, Donald Trump and Ant’n’Dec. That should keep me going for a while." Everett himself added: "My friend Andy has been going through a difficult time. Although we’ve not been able to put together any podcasts in the last six months, we are very grateful to all the patrons and supporters who have stuck with us." Kershaw began his career in radio first, but in 1984 he enlisted as a new presenter for BBC2’s Whistle Test before getting his own show on BBC Radio 1 the following year. He presented his own music show for 15 years, which was characterised by his boredom of Anglo-American music and had a strong African influence. Over his broadcast journalism career he also worked for BBC Radios 3 and 4, reporting on stories from around the world, notably the Rwandan genocide, Angola's civil war in 1996, Sierra Leone in 2001 and repeatedly from Haiti. In 2021, Kershaw launched The Andy Kershaw Podcast as a continuation of his much-loved former BBC Radio 1 show. He officially describes the premise of his podcast as "Andy Kershaw plays some bloody great records". There are currently 37 episodes of his podcast which can be listened to on its website. The last upload was in June 2025 and whilst Kershaw and Everett have confirmed that a new episode is coming, they have not revealed when fans can expect to see it. Check out more of our Audio coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
BBC Radio Christmas 2025 line-up confirmed – with Hollywood legend set as guest editor for the Today programme
Six festive guest editors for BBC Radio 4's Today programme have been announced.
The BBC has unveiled its Christmas 2025 radio line-up, with Cate Blanchett, Baroness Theresa May and acclaimed historian Tom Holland among the celebrities set to guest edit BBC Radio 4’s Today programme this festive season. They will be joined by broadcaster Melvyn Bragg, inventor Sir James Dyson and AI entrepreneur Mustafa Suleyman, and each be curating an episode between 24th December and 31st December. The festive takeover kicks off on Christmas Eve, with a special guest edit from Bragg, where he will be exploring the origins of the nativity story. Dyson will use his episode on Boxing Day to explore how Britain can get its inventive streak back, while Blanchett’s guest edit, which will broadcast on 27th December, will examine a range of topics including the impact of AI technology on women in the film industry and beyond. Suleyman’s guest edit on 29th December will ask how we can navigate the realities of a post-superintelligence world. Holland will edit the programme on 30th December, hosting an early celebration for England’s 1100th birthday and examining the impact of AI on academic research. Finally, May will explore the themes of domestic violence, trust in politics and modern slavery in her guest edit on 31st December. Owenna Griffiths, Editor of the Today programme, said: "Every Christmas on Today, a new set of guest editors take up residence and bring with them a wonderful range of new stories, fresh ideas and, hopefully, a sprinkling of joy." She continued: "This year is no exception. In a rapidly changing world, this year's guest editors will help bring illumination and understanding and I'm enormously grateful to all of them for giving up the time to take part." Elsewhere on the BBC radio Christmas line-up, TV presenter Lorraine Kelly is set to make her Radio 2 debut. Kelly is set to take over Jeremy Vine’s slot during the festive period, while the station will also host a Jane McDonald special and a celebration of the music of Stevie Wonder presented by Trevor Nelson. Over on Radio 4, fans can expect a festive edition of Desert Island Discs with Kate Winslet, as well as a celebration of 75 years of The Archers, a new adaptation of P.G. Wodehouse’s Joy in the Morning, and a new performance of T.S. Eliot’s Murder in the Cathedral. Radio 1 will present the exclusive reveal of the official Christmas No. 1, while the return of the Presenter Takeover will give brand new DJs an opportunity to front some of the network’s most recognised programmes. Meanwhile, Radio 3 will aim to "blend tradition, reflection and celebration" with Carols Across The Country, live broadcasts from dawn to dusk, and a landmark Advent service from St John’s College, Cambridge. Read more: 'Lust is a great creative force': David Bowie reveals what drove him in exclusive interview Silent Witness star Emilia Fox on new true crime series: 'It's left up to the listener to decide' The BBC’s Orchestras and Choirs will also be presenting concerts on the stations throughout the Christmas period. Over on Radio 5 Live, fans can look forward to a packed schedule of live sport and special shows, including Elis James and John Robins celebrating their 500th episode, Roman Kemp and Tom Grennan’s festive You About?, and The Wayne Rooney Show. On Radio 6 Music, Jarvis Cocker and Bill Nighy sit in for Iggy Pop, Beth Ditto will curate indie disco hits, Nick Grimshaw will look back on the year, and Craig Charles will deliver funk and soul. Check out more of our Audio coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
BBC launches three new radio stations: "It's all about the audience"
The Radio 1 and Radio 3 spin-offs were approved while Radio 2 and 5 Sports Extra proposals were dismissed.
Twenty-three years since it last launched new national radio stations – BBC 6 Music, 1Xtra and Asian Network – the BBC has three starting on the same day. Previously available since November 2024 as live streams on BBC Sounds, Radio 1 Anthems, Radio 1 Dance (which has been on Sounds since 2020) and Radio 3 Unwind passed full competition assessments undertaken by the industry’s regulatory body Ofcom in July of this year and will start broadcasting on DAB+ on Friday 12 September. The three stations were part of wider proposals from the BBC, which also included the launch of a Radio 2 spin-off and the extension of the broadcasting hours of 5 Sports Extra. Both the Radio 2 spin-off and the extension of 5 Sports Extra were refused by Ofcom for the negative impact it was deemed they would have on commercial competitors. Sam Jackson, the controller of Radio 3, says that while he couldn’t be certain that Unwind would get approval, “I wasn't surprised, because I think we made a very, very strong case. I was very proud of the submission that we made, I felt we did a good job of arguing why this was distinctive and why it would be welcomed.” He points out that around 8,000 different pieces of music will be played on Unwind each year, from a broad repertoire but with a focus on recordings from the past 10 years – even of Baroque or classical pieces – and a mission to introduce new contemporary works, including from performers or composers who aren’t signed to record labels. Radio 1 controller Aled Haydn Jones is similarly robust in his defence of why we need two new stations: “It’s all about the audience. Ofcom has pointed out that the BBC needs to be doing better with young audiences. Having services for young people is a public service. Radio 1 is the biggest radio station for youth audiences in the UK, so having stations with the Radio 1 brand offering more is a pretty special thing.” Both men are keen to stress the differences between what their stations are offering and what can be found on commercial radio, with Haydn Jones claiming that Radio 1 plays more tracks in a week than its nearest commercial competitor does in a year, though he understands the commercial imperative that may account for that disparity. “Commercial stations are going to pick the songs that work best for their audience and play them as frequently as they want to play them. Whereas Radio 1 are about new artists coming through; over 50 per cent of Radio 1 tracks are within the last six weeks of release and Radio 1 Dance will do the same for UK dance DJs and producers coming through.” On the back of that he expects Radio 1 Dance to play around 3,000 unique tracks a year – in previous years on BBC Sounds it has averaged around 3,200. Sam Jackson takes an additional angle in his argument as to how Radio 3 Unwind is distinct from its competitors, saying: “If you compare what we do with Classic FM Calm where, I believe, there are no presenters, we have programmes that are presented by experts in their field.” He points to mid-morning presenter Sian Williams, who as well as being a respected broadcaster also has now an NHS practice in the field of trauma mental health, working with first responders. “She brings with her this other side to what she does. She's a broadcaster, she loves classical music but she's also trained professionally in mental health and wellbeing.” Continuing in the comparison with Classic FM Calm, he’s at pains to point out he’s highlighting differences not setting out to denigrate the competition: “This isn't meant to be a slight on what they do. They do what they do, they do that very well, but they have a kind of jukebox of music that is played with no presenters. There's an audience for that, there's an audience for a version of that on Spotify as well and I think anything that introduces more people to classical music is a good thing. “But I think we have to collectively have the confidence to say there's room for everybody and then let the audience decide what they want to listen to.” Haydn Jones also points to the breadth of presenting talent on Radio 1 Dance, which includes many big cheeses from the dance music world, from veterans like Pete Tong to newer names such as Charlie Hedges and the Blessed Madonna. Defending Radio 1 Anthems, which has a stated mission of serving up nostalgia for young people with a playlist of “bangers” from the Noughties to now, against accusations that it’s just like any number of commercial “decades” stations (Absolute 90s, Heart 80s, etc etc) is a bit tougher but Haydn Jones remains staunch. “The people who are presenting it are in some of the first presenting jobs, they've had out of university. We work with the Student Radio Association, where we had a panel of students playlist our shows, but also inform the Radio 1 team about songs they grew up with or remember. “But then also we add our curation with our knowledge of young people under 24 to find out which pockets of eras or genres we could delve a bit deeper into to give them ‘new to me’ music; things that they might not have discovered as they were growing up. For us, it's about the target audience and trying to ensure that they have a service that's dedicated to them.” He also points to the fact that getting Ofcom approval is recognition from the broadcast industry that there needs to be a focus on young audiences, and that the BBC is better placed than any to serve that audience. “It may not be where the easiest money is for our commercial friends, there are going to be more affluent age demographics that can pay bills. The fact that we are able to say we want to make sure that young audiences do not move away from DAB or from broadcast media and drift to streaming, I think is an important one. "So, I think the fact that we were successful with these is great. It won't be the full answer to our problems of ensuring that young audiences get what they need from broadcast media and BBC specifically but it's a brilliant step.” Asked whether there could be any more spin-offs from their stations, Sam Jackson is cautiously optimistic, saying: “Could there be a Radio 3 jazz station, a Radio 3 live music station? I love the idea of launching some new services that introduce Radio 3 to even more people so long as we keep the main network as healthy and as strong as ever.” Everything would, of course, be subject to the same lengthy Ofcom approvals process that the new stations have already gone through and it’s this that makes Haydn Jones more reluctant to say yes to more Radio 1 stations: “No one is asking for that right now. And I'm imagining at the pace these things take, if there ever is in the future, I'll be long gone by then.” Check out more of our Audio coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
BBC Radio 1 confirms Love Island: Aftersun favourite and more fresh faces to join presenting line-up
The presenting line-up is expanding this autumn.
BBC Radio 1 has announced a dazzling new line-up of presenters joining the Friday Early Breakfast monthly rotation and the station's Life Hacks this autumn. Beth Wallace, Jack Remmington and Ash Holme have been confirmed as the next wave of presenters set to host Fridays 5am - 7am. Wallace, who has been part of the Radio 1 family since last Christmas, will kick off the rotation in September. She also presents a show on the Scottish-based local Forth 1 and was nominated for Best New Presenter at the 2025 ARIAS. "I'm absolutely buzzing to be part of the Radio 1 team for the next few weeks," said Wallace. "Radio 1 is a station I’ve always adored and it’s gonna be an absolute pleasure to kick start Fridays, get folk in the weekend mood early. Laughs, good vibes and fun times coming your way." Presenting duo Jack Remmington and Ash Holme will be taking the October slot, with both of them known for their hilarious videos on social media. Holme has built a following of over two million on social media, and was part of this year's Love Island: Aftersun panel. Remmington is known for his pop culture commentary and hosting red carpets, as well as his work on the podcast Famously... In Love. The duo said: "We're sooo excited to be back at BBC Radio 1 and this time soundtracking your Fridays through October - tune in to liven up your mornings and enjoy the energy and chaos we’re bringing your way." And while Shanequa Paris is on maternity leave, Charley Marlowe and Lina Nielsen will join Lauren Layfield to co-host Radio 1's Life Hacks, with Marlowe taking over in September and Nielsen in October. The pair will also co-host The Official Chart: First Look alongside Lauren Layfield. Nielsen said: "I’m thrilled to have this opportunity with Radio 1 and the Life Hacks team. Having been a guest on the show before the Olympics, I’ve always loved catching up with them live on air. Now, I can’t wait to join as a co-host throughout October." Aled Haydn Jones, Head of Radio 1, commented on the new presenter signing: "Supporting and developing new presenting talent is at the heart of what we do at Radio 1, and the schedule this autumn is a great example of that. "I’m excited to welcome Beth, Jack, Ash, Charley and Lina to the station and can’t wait to see the energy and creativity they bring to their shows." Check out more of our Audio coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Greg James on his Radio 1 future – and meeting childhood hero Michael Palin
From shows on Radio 1 and Radio 4 via podcasts, Greg James continues to add to his CV — but who inspired all that enthusiasm and curiosity?
This article first appeared in Radio Times magazine. Perched on a deckchair outside Sheffield City Hall, Greg James is enthusing about having just been on stage with his childhood hero and favourite son of the city, Michael Palin. “Michael massively inspired me. I must have been about eight or nine when I watched Around the World in 80 Days, and I just saw him as this wonderful travel presenter, but then I went on this voyage of discovery and realised this very funny man was also part of the greatest comedy group of all time, and a scriptwriter, an actor, a director and an author.” The pair were recording a live episode of James’s Radio 4 series, Rewinder, at the Crossed Wires podcast festival, which featured a trove of archive clips linked to the former Python’s life and career – from his first screen performance in a saucy Ken Dodd sketch to his old geography teacher reminiscing about Palin’s school days. The previous evening James hosted another show at the festival, Nobody Expects the Michael Palin Podcast, in which ostensibly he tried to persuade Palin – surely one of the few famous people not to have a podcast – that he needs one. “One thing I love about him is that he is endlessly curious – he loves meeting new people, experiencing new things and finding out about stuff, and I think finding out about podcasts is an extension of everything else that he does.” But the podcast wheeze was really a red herring: “It was an excuse to interview him about his life in Sheffield. That was the magic.” An endless curiosity is perhaps something that could also be attributed to the 39-year-old Radio 1 Breakfast presenter, Radio 4 archivist, Tailenders cricket podcast host, children’s author and, from this year, creative director of Crossed Wires. When asked where that drive comes from, he returns to the influence of Michael Palin, “He approaches everything he does with such enthusiasm and genuine passion – I try to do that as well. You need role models and I don’t think there’s a better one than him. He’s a great example of ‘nobody is just one thing’.” Yet one does wonder whether the multiple strands of James’s career are in fact a strategy for a man about to bid farewell to his 30s, whose main job for the past 18 years has been on a pop radio station famous for sidelining presenters when they don’t fit its young demographic. Is his Radio 4 work, Tailenders and the podcast festival an insurance against the time when Radio 1 bosses decide he’s outgrown his audience? “No, I don’t look at it like that. I take on too many things because I enjoy them, not because I won’t have any work. I love Radio 1 with my whole heart, it’s all I’ve listened to since I was a kid, and actually I didn’t think I’d still want to be on it, but I’m still finding new challenges with it. It’s fantastic, I still find the listeners endlessly fascinating and funny.” James says he has a good relationship with his bosses, who he checks in with every year to make sure they still want him to continue in the job and that, if in that annual review they decided it was enough, “I would have no regrets. I would go, ‘OK, I’ve got more to give but I’m cool with it.’” As he’s being given an extra 30 minutes each morning over the summer, that day isn’t quite here yet, and there are hints an early exit would not be greeted quite so coolly. “I feel incredibly lucky to still be on Radio 1, it’s a real privilege to be there so I don’t want to go too soon. It takes a long time to get to the breakfast show, so I want to make sure that when I leave, it’s the exact right time.” When that time does come, James will no doubt be emulating his hero and boarding a train for a new adventure. The latest issue of Radio Times is out now – subscribe here. Check out more of our Audio coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
BBC Radio 1 Big Weekend 2025 schedule: Opening and stage times
Here's everything you need to know before the big event.
BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend is finally here and promises to be one to remember for music lovers of all genres. With four stages and dozens of acts to choose from across the three-day event, there's plenty to keep you occupied with must-watch sets from some of the biggest chart-toppers in the world. As thousands descend on Sefton Park in Liverpool this weekend (Friday 23rd May to Sunday 25th May), the annual event is pulling out all the stops to make it a celebration like never before. Gates will open Friday at 2pm, and 11am on Saturday on Sunday – and each day will end at approximately 10pm. Thankfully, we're here to make sure you make the most of those all-important tickets – including when and where to find your favourite acts. Here's where you can find your favourites across BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend. BBC Radio 1 Big Weekend 2025 schedule Friday 24th May 2025 It's quite a busy day at the big weekend with some huge performances, particularly from beloved indie bands The Wombats and Biffy Clyro. However, we're also in the mood for some 00s nostalgia with a performance from Natasha Bedingfield. The Main stage also boasts a host of DJs to give some great tunes between the big shows. Main Stage 3pm - 4pm: Workout Anthems with Rickie & Melvin 4pm - 4.35pm: The Wombats 4.35pm - 5pm: Radio 1 Anthems with Nat & Nicky 5pm - 5.30pm: Natasha Bedingfield 5.30pm - 6.05pm: Pop Anthems with Dean McCullough 6.05pm - 6.45pm: James Hype 6.45pm - 7.20pm: Party Anthems with Sam & Danni 7.20pm - 8.05pm: Biffy Clyro 8.05pm - 8.45pm: Dance Anthems with Charlie Hedges 8.45pm - 9.45pm: Tom Grennan New Music Stage 4.05pm - 4.45pm: D.O.D 4.45pm - 5.30pm: Barry Can't Swim 6.30pm - 7pm: Jazzy 6pm - 6.45pm: Prospa 6.45pm - 7.20pm: Katy B 7.20pm - 8pm: Nia Archives 8.15pm - 9pm: Confidence Man Dance Stage 3pm - 4pm: Shelly 4pm - 5pm: Charlie Hedges 5pm - 6pm: Martha 6pm - 6.45pm: Paige Tomlinson 6.45pm - 7.30pm: Girls Don't Sync 7.30pm - 8.15pm: Fish56Octagon 8.15pm - 9pm: Kettama Introducing Stage 2.20pm - 2.40pm: Miles Temp 3pm - 3.30pm: Leonie Biney 4pm - 4.30pm: Jayahadadream 5pm - 5.30pm: Esme Emerson 6pm - 6.30pm: Billy Khan 7pm - 7.30pm: Tonia 8pm - 8.40pm: Crawlers Saturday 25th May 2025 Some more 'Best of British' here with a real variety. Pop fans can enjoy the original line-up of girl group Sugababes, while it's an indie finish with Wolf Alice and Sam Fender closing out the night. Main Stage 12.30pm - 1.30pm: Radio 1 Anthems with Nat & Vicky 1.30pm - 2.10pm: Tom Odell 2.10pm - 2.55pm: Workout Anthems with Maia Beth 2.55pm - 3.35pm: Sugababes 3.35pm - 4.20pm: Pop Anthems with Dean McCullough 4.20pm - 5pm: Myles Smith 5pm- 5.45pm: Dance Anthems with Charlie Hedges 5.45pm - 6.25pm: Blossoms 6.25pm - 7.10pm: Party Anthems with Sam & Danni 7.10pm - 7.55pm: Wolf Alice 7.55pm - 8.45pm: Soundsystem Party with Jeremiah Asiamah 8.45pm - 9.45pm: Sam Fender New Music Stage 1.15pm - 2pm: Special guest 2.40pm - 3.20pm: Good Neighbours 4pm - 4.35pm: Artemas 5.15pm - 5.50pm: Jordan Adetunji 6.30pm - 7.15pm: Inhaler 7.15pm - 8pm: Jack Saunders (DJ set) 8pm - 9pm: Aitch B2B AJ Tracey Dance Stage 2.15pm - 3pm: Charlotte Plank 3pm - 4pm: Arielle Free 4pm - 5pm: Danny Howard 5pm - 6pm: Sarah Story 6pm - 7pm: Phoebe I-H 7pm - 8pm: Connor Coates Introducing Stage 11.30am - 12pm: Koj 12.30pm - 1pm: Liang Lawrence 1.30pm - 2pm: Erin Lecount 2.30pm - 3pm: Jetta 3.30pm - 4pm: Mackenzy Mackay 4.30pm - 5pm: Sienna Spiro 5.30pm - 6pm: Superlate 6.30pm - 7pm: Luvcat 7.30pm - 8pm: Secret set Sunday 26th May 2025 <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/04/GettyImages-1645427842-1f491b0.jpg" width="3000" height="2000" alt="LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 28: Alana Haim, Danielle Haim and Este Haim of Haim perform at All Points East Festival 2023 at Victoria Park on August 28, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Lorne Thomson/Redferns)" title="Haim Perform At All Points East Festival 2023" /> The HAIM sisters take to the stage on Sunday night to help close out the festival with folk-indie band Mumford & Sons. Elsewhere, social media sensation Lola Young will no doubt be giving a rendition of 'Messy', while JADE takes to the New Music Stage. Main Stage 12.30pm - 1.30pm: Pop Anthems with Matt & Mollie 1.30pm - 2.15pm: Tate McRae 2.15pm - 3pm: Radio 1 Anthems with James Cusack 3pm - 3.35pm: Lola Young 3.35pm -4.20pm: Pop Anthems with Dean McCullough 4.20pm - 5pm: Jorja Smith 5pm - 5.45pm: Soundsystem Party with Jeremiah Asiamah 5.45pm - 6.25pm: Wet Leg 6.25pm - 7.10pm: Workout Anthems with Rickie & Melvin 7.10pm - 7.55pm - Haim 7.55pm - 8.45pm - Rave-Up with Arielle Free 8.45pm - 9.45pm: Mumford & Sons New Music Stage 1.45pm - 2.15pm: South Arcade 2.55pm - 3.25pm: Hard Life 4.15pm -4.50pm: Joy Crookes 5.30pm - 6.05pm: Flo 6.45pm - 7.30pm: Self Esteem 7.30pm to 8.15pm: Maia Beth (DJ set) 8.15pm to 9pm: JADE Dance Stage 12.30pm - 2pm: Boo 2pm - 3pm: Essel 3pm - 4pm: Sarah Story 4pm - 5pm: Martha 5pm - 6pm: Charlie Tee 6pm - 7pm: Phoebe I-H 7pm - 8pm: Jeremiah Asiamah Introducing Stage 11.30am - 12pm: PaisleighB 12.30pm - 1pm: Keyside 1.3pm - 2pm: Dirty Nice 3.30pm - 4pm: Fat Dog 4.30pm - 5pm: Aimei 5.30pm - 6pm: Courting 6.3opm - 7pm: Le Boom 7.30pm - 8pm: Pixey Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. 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BBC Radio 1 Big Weekend 2025 line-up: Full list of confirmed acts performing
This year, the annual event is heading to Liverpool for a celebration of the biggest acts in the UK.
BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend is returning for another year – and now more exciting acts have been added to the line-up. The annual festival is due to take place at Sefton Park in Liverpool from Friday 23rd May to Sunday 25th May, and it looks set to be one hell of a party, with four stages filled with nearly 100 artists for you to dance and celebrate the start of summer with. And for the first time ever, the festival has introduced performances from Radio 1 Anthems acts to celebrate iconic tracks and unforgettable moments from the past two decades of music. This year, this is Natasha Bedingfield, who will perform on the Friday, and Sugababes, who will appear on the Saturday. Both will perform their biggest tracks on the main stage line-up. They join a bunch of previously announced artists on the bill, including Biffy Clyro, Sam Fender, Blossoms, Lola Young, Wet Leg and BRIT Rising Star 2025 winner Myles Smith. Meanwhile, Tom Grennan will headline on Friday night, while artists including Confidence Man, Katy B, Barry Can't Swim and Nia Archives are also on the line-up. So, whether you're at the Radio 1 Main Stage, Radio 1 New Music Stage, Radio 1 Dance Stage or BBC Introducing Stage, you're sure to have a great time. Here's who has been confirmed on BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend 2025 line-up so far. BBC Radio 1 Big Weekend 2025 line-up: Full list of confirmed acts performing Friday 23rd May Radio 1 Main Stage Biffy Clyro James Hype Natasha Bedingfield Tom Grennan The Wombats New Music Stage Barry Can't Swim Confidence Man DOD Jazzy Katy B Nia Archives Prospa Radio 1 Dance Stage Charlie Hedges Fish56Octagon Girls Don't Sync Kettama Martha Paige Tomlinson BBC Introducing Stage Crawlers Esme Emerson JayaHadADream Leonie Biney Tonia Saturday 24th May Radio 1 Main Stage Blossoms Myles Smith Sam Fender Sugababes Tom Odell Wolf Alice Radio 1 New Music Stage Aitch b2b AJ Tracey Artemas Good Neighbours Inhaler Jordan Adetunji Radio 1 Dance Stage Arielle Free Charlotte Plank Connor Coates Danny Howard Sarah Story BBC Introducing Stage Erin LeCount Jetta KOJ Liang Lawrence LUVCAT Mackenzy Mackay Sienna Spiro Superlate Sunday 25th May Main Stage HAIM Jorja Smith Lola Young Mumford & Sons Tate McRae Wet Leg Radio 1 New Music Stage FLO JADE Joy Crookes Self Esteem South Arcade Radio 1 Dance Stage Charlie Tee ESSEL Jeremiah Asiamah Martha Sarah Story BBC Introducing Stage aimei Courting Dirty Nice Fat Dog Keyside Le Boom PaisleighB Pixey How do I get tickets to BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend? Tickets are available now and cost £33 (plus a £4.50 booking fee per ticket). Buy tickets to Friday's Big Weekend Performance You can only purchase a maximum of two tickets per person for one day, but not for multiple days. Unfortunately Saturday and Sunday are already sold out. As with previous years, tickets are being geographically weighted, with 50 per cent of sales reserved for those living in Liverpool, 40 per cent for those living in surrounding areas, and the other 10 per cent for the remainder of the UK. If you can't get tickets, BBC Radio 1 will also broadcast live from the festival site across the weekend, with performances and tracks available live and on demand across BBC iPlayer and BBC Sounds. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Jamie Laing emotional as Comic Relief total from ultra marathons is revealed
The former Made in Chelsea star completed his fifth consecutive ultra marathons in five days on Friday.
BBC Radio 1 presenter Jamie Laing got emotional as he learnt he had raised more than £2 million through his gruelling Ultra Marathons challenge for Comic Relief. The 26-year-old podcast host and Made in Chelsea star ran five consecutive ultra marathons in five days this week, racking up a total of 150 miles. Laing, who admitted earlier in the week that he had been struggling to find energy but dug deep after receiving support from Radio 1 listeners, crossed the finish line in Salford, Manchester on Friday, 21st March, where he was welcomed by a huge crowd of supporters. Appearing on Radio 1 afterwards, Laing discovered the whopping total he had raised during the challenge – and soon became emotional, burying his face in his hands. “Thank you everyone, thank you so much, thank you for digging deep, that is unbelievable,” he said. “It just means the world, I’ll never forget this… you are changing and saving lives.” Laing went on to reflect about what he had learned during the challenge and encouraged listeners to open up about their mental health. He said: "One of the big things for me was just talking about your mental health. And it sounds so cliche, but what is more important and more powerful is saying 'I have anxiety', 'I have OCD', 'I have depression', 'I have insomnia'. Whatever it is, labelling yourself is so much more." He continued: "I've never really been honest about it. I have suffered, and I do suffer. And that's okay. It's way braver to talk about it than not talk about it, and this week has made me realise that talking about things is the coolest thing in the world." There is still time to donate to Red Nose Day at comicrelief.com/donate. Comic Relief, 2025, Funny For Money is available to watch on catch-up on BBC iPlayer. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Jamie Laing raises incredible sum for Comic Relief after gruelling ultra marathon challenge
It's been a tough few days for the radio presenter.
Earlier this week, Jamie Laing embarked on five ultra-marathons in aid of Comic Relief and has raised an incredible amount of money in donations, with two more days to go before he reaches the Red Nose Day night of TV in Salford on Friday night. At the time of writing, Laing has raised over £500,000, meaning Greg James will be joining him for a run tomorrow... in a wedding dress! Listeners have been tuning into BBC Radio 1 since Monday to see how Jamie has been getting on, with some truly emotional scenes as he reunited with his wife Sophie Habboo and best friend Oliver Proudlock. After completing his third marathon on Wednesday 19th March, Laing marked the end with an emotional post on Instagram. "Day 3 done – if I’m totally honest I didn’t think I would get through today," he wrote, continuing: "At 25km’s I thought I couldn’t go further, mentally and physically I was completely done. I have never experienced pain like this before. It has felt like I have been running on glass, and my mind was being pretty negative, but every time I wanted to quit I would have a moment that spurred me on – a cheer, a donation, something!! "I have more gratitude for the support I’ve been shown that I will ever be able to find the words for. This is the hardest thing I have ever done, but it would be 1000 times harder alone. "Tomorrow we go again… Thank you so much for your support, thank you for every donation. Truly thank you!! If you feel like donating, only if you can there is the link in my bio. Thank you so much to everyone!! You guys are amazing." The compilation video featured snippets of him running with The Traitors winners Leanne Quigley and Jake Brown, as well as an emotional reunion with his wife. You can support Laing's efforts by donating via comicrelief.com/jamie and you can keep up to date with his journey on BBC Sounds. Red Nose Day 2025 airs at 7pm on Friday 21st March on BBC One and iPlayer. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Jordan North to leave BBC Radio 1 as replacement revealed
The star is one of the station's most popular hosts.
Jordan North is leaving Radio 1 after 10 years at the station, the BBC has announced. The 34-year-old currently co-hosts the Radio 1 drivetime show alongside Vick Hope from 3:30pm to 6pm, Monday to Thursdays, but will be replaced by Made in Chelsea star Jamie Laing from 4th March. The news was announced by the BBC, with North’s employer paying tribute to the "amazing presenter" and his 10 years of service. "Jordan has been an amazing presenter and a valued colleague at Radio 1, and I’m so proud of his journey with us," said Aled Haydn Jones, head of Radio 1, in a statement. "He has always connected with the Radio 1 audience through his shows and projects, as witnessed by the huge amount of money raised for Comic Relief during his rowing trip from London to Burnley." North, who is yet to respond publicly, joined the station back in 2014 as a freelance presenter. He was announced as the new host of the Greatest Hits Sunday morning show in 2018, before becoming a regular 11am to 1pm weekend presenter on BBC Radio 1 in 2020. In 2021, he was promoted to the BBC Radio 1 drivetime show. North’s successor Jamie Laing said in a statement: "I’ve loved every minute that I’ve been on air with Radio 1 in recent years, so to be joining Vick on Drivetime is just incredible." He added: "To be working with Vick is an absolute dream, so I’m beyond excited to get started and keep listeners company on their journeys home." Fans have been left heartbroken by the news, with one penning on Twitter, which was recently re-branded as X: "Really hope this was your decision @jordannorth1 and that it means bigger things for you - we love you and will miss you v much xx." View oEmbed on the source website Another added: "Genuinely shocked at the news of Jordan North leaving Radio 1. Hopefully on to better things." Read more: When is Rylan Clark back on BBC Radio 2? New Dad's Army audio adaptations to be released this month – pre-order now Dan Walker gets new job hosting Classic FM breakfast show Visit our TV Guide, Radio Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 10 issues for only £10 – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Steve Wright, BBC Radio 2 presenter, dies aged 69 – BBC pays tribute
Wright presented programmes on BBC Radio 1 and Radio 2.
DJ and radio personality Steve Wright has died aged 69, it has been confirmed by his family. His family confirmed his death "with deep sorrow and profound regret" in a statement on Tuesday (13th February), writing: "It is with deep sorrow and profound regret that we announce the passing of our beloved Steve Wright. "In addition to his son, Tom, and daughter, Lucy, Steve leaves behind his brother, Laurence, and his father, Richard. "Also, much-loved close friends and colleagues, and millions of devoted radio listeners who had the good fortune and great pleasure of allowing Steve into their daily lives as one of the UK's most enduring and popular radio personalities. "As we all grieve, the family requests privacy at this immensely difficult time." Wright was known for hosting radio shows on BBC Radio 1 and Radio 2, as well as fronting TV shows like Top of the Pops. He took over as the host of Pick of the Pops from Paul Gambaccini in 2023, and presented BBC Radio 2's mid-morning show Sunday Love Songs. Wright was last on air this past Sunday, presenting a pre-recorded Valentine's Day edition of his Sunday Love Songs programme. Having joined the BBC in 1980 to host a Saturday evening show, his career spanned afternoon and evenings shows and a stint in commercial radio. Over the past couple of years, Wright continued to present Sunday Love Songs as well as a series of specials and podcasts, including Your Ultimate Kylie Song, and in December, Steve Wright’s Peter Kay Christmas Special. Wright recently received a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2024 New Year Honours for his services to radio. Paying tribute to Wright, Tim Davie, BBC's director general, said: "All of us at the BBC are heartbroken to hear this terribly sad news. Steve was a truly wonderful broadcaster who has been a huge part of so many of our lives over many decades. "He was the ultimate professional – passionate about the craft of radio and deeply in touch with his listeners. This was deservedly recognised in the New Year Honours list with his MBE for services to radio. "No-one had more energy to deliver shows that put a smile on audiences’ faces. They loved him deeply. We are thinking of Steve and his family and will miss him terribly." View oEmbed on the source website Head of Radio 2, Helen Thomas, also paid tribute to Wright, saying: "Steve understood the connection and companionship that radio engenders better than anyone, and we all loved him for it. "He was a consummate professional whose attention to detail was always second to none, and he made his guests laugh, he was fair, and he wanted to showcase them and their work in the best possible light, bringing brilliant stories to our listeners. "Steve’s afternoon show was an institution that began on Radio 1 and later moved over to Radio 2, where it was broadcast for 23 years. "He believed in the BBC passionately during his career that spanned for more than four decades, and he was always up for pursuing new ideas. "He brought joy to millions of listeners with his Sunday Love Songs as well as the legendary Pick of the Pops, which he took on last year and was having fun experimenting with, alongside a host of specials and new BBC Sounds formats which he loved doing. "Steve was the first presenter I ever produced more than 20 years ago, and I remember the pure amazement I felt, sitting opposite this legendary broadcaster whose shows I had listened to and marvelled at whilst growing up in Hull. "For all of us at Radio 2, he was a wonderful colleague and a friend with his excellent sense of humour, generosity with his time, and endless wise words. We were lucky to have him with us for all these decades, and we will miss his talent and his friendship terribly." Similarly, Lorna Clarke, director of BBC Music, said on the announcement of Wright's death: "Steve was an extraordinary broadcaster – someone audiences loved, and many of us looked up to. He loved radio, and he loved the BBC, but most of all… he loved his audience. "From Radio 1 to Radio 2, he was with us for more than four decades, and brought so much joy to our airwaves, whatever he was up to. We were privileged to have him with us for all these years."
Former Capital Breakfast host Vick Hope joins BBC Radio 1
The DJ left Capital Breakfast earlier this year.
Vick Hope is joining BBC Radio 1 as Sunday show Life Hacks' new co-host after leaving Capital Breakfast in February. The 30-year-old presenter is replacing Cel Spellman on the weekly BBC Radio 1 show, during which Katie Thistleton discusses a variety of issues affecting young people. In an Instagram post this morning, Hope described Life Hacks as "such a special show", which she has listened to "religiously right back since the days of The Surgery". "I am so honoured to be a part of continuing to build this community of support and advice alongside two magnificent women, Katie Thistleton and Dr Radha," she added. "I can't wait to work with you!" https://www.instagram.com/p/CD0u3fAnT8G/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link She prefaced her comments by addressing the death of Capital Breakfast producer Joe Lyons, who passed away last Tuesday. "It's been an extremely tough time, processing this will take a while," she wrote. "I took a step away from social media last week, and when the Radio 1 schedule was announced it just didn’t feel right to be sharing news of any sort. Thank you to Aled and the BBC team." She continued: "But as [Roman Kemp] said in his tribute on Monday, the show must go on. This week has made me reflect on just how important radio is, and how much I love it. Radio is community, it is support, it is information, it is companionship, it is joy." "I am so inspired by and grateful to the people who make it with passion, creativity and care for our listeners. Thank you in particular to my special friend, for whom radio was everything," she added. Capital Breakfast presenter Roman Kemp paid tribute to the late producer during Monday morning's show, saying: "He was with me right from my very first show, he taught me everything," before adding that it was "really weird sitting in a radio studio without him". Hope will be joining BBC Radio 1 from Sunday 6th September onwards, co-presenting Life Hacks from 4-6pm before hosting The Official Chart: First Look until 7pm. The DJ joined Capital Breakfast in 2017 and was replaced by Sian Welby in March after her departure. She has presented Channel 4's Shipwrecked and competed on the 16th series of Strictly Come Dancing. If you’re looking for something to watch tonight, check out our TV Guide.
Alice Levine quits BBC Radio 1 after nine years
The presenter declared it the "end of an era" in an Instagram post.
Broadcaster Alice Levine has announced that she is leaving BBC Radio 1 after more than nine years with the station. Announcing the news on Instagram, the presenter - who currently hosts the weekend afternoon show - declared it the "end of an era" and described her time with Radio 1 as "a gift of a job". She added that she had met "friends for life" and went on to thank many of the producers she had worked alongside during her stint on the station. She wrote, "I’ve decided it’s the right time for me to hang up the headphones (not a thing) and say goodbye to Radio 1. "It‘s 9 years since I first walked around the old studios at Yalding House and signed up to start piloting for a show. So many big moments have happened since then and I have met friends for life. The team at R1 are the funniest, smartest and most-hardworking. I can’t believe I got to be in the gang for a bit." Among the people Levine thanked in her post were Rhys Hughes, who first offered her a role, Matt Fincham and Adele Cross, while she also said she "somehow managed to bag the very best producers". Some of the highlights she picked out from her time at Radio 1 were winning a Music Week Best Show Award and broadcasting from the likes of Glastonbury, the Brit Awards and Radio 1 Big Weekends. Levine has held many roles during her time at the station, including presenting the 10pm until midnight show with Phil Taggart before moving to the weekend, covering both the breakfast and afternoon slots at various times. According to the BBC, Levine's last show on the station will be on Sunday 9th August, while it is not currently clear what lies in store next for the presenter, who also co-hosted the first series of The Circle and is one of the creators of hit podcast My Dad Wrote a Porno. She is not the first major Radio 1 DJ to leave the station in recent weeks - with her departure coming just two months after Maya Jama also announced that she would be quitting. Find out what to watch with our TV Guide or what to listen to next with our Radio Listings Guide.
BBC Radio 1's Clara Amfo breaks down in powerful speech about death of George Floyd
"We – black people – get the feeling that people want our culture but do not want us. In other words, you want my talent but you don't want me."
BBC Radio 1 DJ Clara Amfo has been praised on social media after emotionally discussing the impact of George Floyd's death on her mental health. Speaking during her mid-morning show on Radio 1 today, Clara said that she'd been struggling mentally since hearing about the death of George Floyd in the US, who was died whilst being arrested by a white police officer on 25th May. "As you know at Radio 1, we talk a lot about mental health and mine was in a really, really bad way yesterday, in fact it has been, for the past few days in particular in relation to the death of George Floyd – an unarmed black man who died whilst being held under arrest," she said. "Now I didn't have the mental strength to face you guys yesterday, to ask 'Hi how's your weekend' like I usually do with my happy intention because I know that my weekend was terrible," she continued. View oEmbed on the source website "I was sat on my sofa, crying, angry, confused and also knowing stuck at the news of yet another brutalised black body," she said, audibly upset. "Knowing how the world enjoys blackness and seeing what happened to George, we – black people – get the feeling that people want our culture but do not want us. In other words, you want my talent but you don't want me." "There is a false idea that racism and, in this case, anti-blackness is just name calling and physical violence when it is so much more insidious than that," she said. Clara, who has presented on Radio 1 since 2015, added that one of her favourite thinkers is actress Amanda Seales. "I feel it deeply when she says, 'You cannot enjoy the rhythm and ignore the blues.' And I say that with my chest." Clara finished the speech by asking listeners to tune into Annie Mac's show this evening, which is dedicated to black artists, and Seani B and Ace on BBC Radio 1Xtra who are speaking about "their experiences as black me in this country". View oEmbed on the source website "I want to say to our black listeners, I hope you feel seen and heard today," she added. Many listeners took to Twitter to praise Clara's speech, with one user writing, "Very brave for discussing racism in such a raw and heartbreaking way." Clara's fellow BBC DJs also praised her speech, with Radio 1 presenter Chris Stark calling it "one of the most incredible, powerful, moving bits of radio ever". View oEmbed on the source website View oEmbed on the source website The death of George Floyd and the delayed arrest of the police officer responsible has led to five-day protests across America and the rest of the world. The BBC radio stations, predominantly BBC Radio 1Xtra, have scheduled a whole day of programming dedicated to discussion of racism, Floyd and the celebration of the black community. Clara Amfo's BBC Radio 1 show is available to listen to on BBC Sounds.
Maya Jama quits BBC Radio 1 after two years on the station
The presenter issued a statement on Instagram
Maya Jama has announced she is leaving BBC Radio 1, a station she has hosted on for two years. The popular presenter started in 2018 and had a successful show every weekend. In an Instagram post, Jama said: "My loveess, I've made the very difficult decision not to continue my Radio 1 contract from June. “As you know I have been juggling & There are a lot of exciting commitments happening that would mean I’m not able to dedicate the time needed to my weekly radio show. “I’ve loved every moment of my time at Radio 1 and I would like to thank the team for their hard work and friendship during the last two years. It’s been a JOURNEY.” She continued: “Thanks to all you cuties that tuned into the show every weekend, it was so great to hear that we have been getting the largest proportion of under 35s tuning in for our on-demand show on BBC Sounds. So we are going out with a bang! Love youuuuu listeners.” View oEmbed on the source website Radio 1's Twitter account shared a message of thanks to Jama for her time at the station. It said: "Thank you to Maya Jama for all your amazing work at Radio 1. Wishing Maya all of the luck for her future adventures."
BBC Radio stations to join together for "Great British Singalong"
BBC Radio 1, Radio 2, 6 Music, 1Xtra and the Asian Network will host a singalong at 9am on Thursday 3rd April
The BBC's most popular radio stations are coming together later this week for a mass singalong that aims to "lift the nation’s spirits" amid the coronavirus pandemic. BBC Radio 1, Radio 2, 6 Music, 1Xtra and the Asian Network will take part in the singalong in a simulcast at 9am on Thursday 2nd April—with all five stations picking one song each. The Great British Singalong will be hosted by Radio 1's Greg James, Dermot O'Leary on Radio 2, Lauren Laverne on 6 Music, Dotty on 1Xtra, and Harpz Kaur on the Asian Network, with the presenters choosing the songs after asking for listener suggestions. Greg James said, "Nothing brings people together quite like radio does. It’s been a great comfort for me to have a focus during this extraordinary time. "I’m so glad the listeners find what we’re currently doing a useful distraction as well. I can’t wait to annoy all the 6 Music listeners with my choice." Lauren Laverne added, "I’m so glad that as radio presenters we can continue to unite and entertain listeners during such a challenging time and what better way to bring people together than a singalong? "I hope you’ll join us on Thursday—and I look forward to hearing your suggestions. I know they will be fabulous." Meanwhile, Lorna Clarke, the controller for BBC Popular Music, said, "In these challenging times, we know that many people have been turning to radio as a lifeline. "The live broadcasts from our amazing presenters are providing people with a sense of community and some much-needed escapism at a time where many of us are feeling distant from our loved ones. "We’ll be keeping that spirit up on Thursday morning as all our pop music stations come together in what is sure to be a very special moment." If you're looking for what to watch during lockdown, check out our TV Guide to stay up to date with the latest programming from the BBC and more.
Who is Dev Griffin? Meet the Strictly Come Dancing contestant and Radio 1 DJ
Radio presenter Dev Griffin is swapping the decks for the dance floor
Dev, it's time to swap the radio booth for the ballroom. The BBC Radio 1 host was the 13th celeb to join the Strictly Come Dancing 2019 line-up. Who is Dev Griffin? The 34-year-old is a radio personality best known for presenting the Weekend Afternoon Show on BBC Radio 1. He made a name for himself in the early 2000s, co-hosting a show on BBC Radio 1Xtra with longtime friend Reggie Yates. When Yates left the station in 2004, Griffin forged a path on his own, before making the move to Radio 1, where he hosted the weekday Monday to Friday 4am-6.30am slot from 2009 until 2014. He regularly covers for Scott Mills and Greg James in their absence. Speaking about joining Strictly Come Dancing, Dev said: "I just can’t believe I’m doing Strictly, it just doesn’t feel real yet! It’s going to be so much fun, but just to be clear, I’m not doing this to take part, I’m totally in it to win it! I can’t wait to meet my partner and start practicing." Key Facts Age: 34 Twitter: @dev_101 Instagram: dev Job: Radio 1 DJ Partner: Dianne Buswell Wasn't Dev on MasterChef? Dev Griffin previously appeared on Celebrity MasterChef in 2017, making it all the way to the final three alongside Ulrika Johnson and Angellica Bell. But he faltered at the last hurdle, with Bell taking home the grand prize. Where else have I seen Dev Griffin? Most recently, he featured in Channel 4's Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins, but quit the show after a challenge that saw him undergo four hours of torturous interrogation. "I’m crying," he said after ending the segment. "I haven’t cried for 15 years about anything. But I just felt so alone. Is it over?" View oEmbed on the source website Has Dev Griffin got any dancing experience? Sort of. Dev revealed he took part in a dance competition at a holiday camp as a child. "In 1996, I entered a dance competition at the Pontings holiday park. I tried my very best. I think I danced to...I'm going to say it was MC Hammers 'Can't Touch This'. I came second. I was slighted," he said. "I swore retribution. As I walked away from those Redcoats, Jordan, I said one day, one day, I'm going to take part in a dance competition, I'm going to get really good and you will rue the day you slighted me!" Read More Kylie Minogue set to open star-studded launch show Strictly's Neil and Katya Jones split Your guide to Strictly Come Dancing 2019 Full confirmed Strictly Come Dancing line-up Meet the professionals
Everything you need to know about BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend 2019
Everything you need to know about two days of show-stopping performances
BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend is back for its sixteenth outing – and this year, it’s, well, bigger than ever! The two-day festival features some of the world’s biggest and best-loved acts performing, with Little Mix, Stormzy and Miley Cyrus all set to take the stage; this time, taking place in Middlesbrough. "It was an awkward, stressful few months": Simon Mayo reveals what went wrong at BBC Radio 2 Capital, Heart and Smooth to slash local radio shows as they go nationwide When is the BFI & Radio Times Television Festival, what's on, and how can I buy tickets? Here’s everything you need to know about the event… When is BBC Radio One’s Big Weekend? The music festival will take place on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th May 2019. Where will it be held? Ever moving, BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend has no fixed location, being held in a different city each year. View oEmbed on the source website For 2019, the festival will be held in Stewart Park in Middlesbrough, the first time it’s taken place here. Who will be performing at the Big Weekend? The line-up up for BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend is one of the most impressive yet, with a range of world-renowned artists taking to the stage. Miley Cyrus, Billie Eilish, Stormzy and Mumford & Sons are at the top of the bill on Saturday, followed by Foals, Bring Me the Horizon, Anne-Marie, Charlie XCX and James Arthur. Sunday sees The 1975, Little Mix and Catfish and the Bottlemen front and centre, alongside rapper Dave, Ellie Goulding, Rita Ora, Twenty One Pilots, Sean Paul and Zara Larsson. Meanwhile Mark Ronson and MK will join the festival for an extra night on on Friday 24th May. A comprehensive list of everyone performing over the weekend is available here. How do you get tickets? Tickets go on sale on Thursday 14th March – they are £18 per ticket (plus a small ticket fee) and limited to two tickets per purchase. You may only apply for tickets for one day at a time. There are 32,000 tickets available per day for the Big Weekend, but due to the popularity of the event, demand is expected to exceed supply. Ticket are available on Ticketmaster, and are available for resale at face value should you suddenly find yourself unable to attend. Some tickets have been specially reserved for those living under Middlesbrough Council, or those in the Teeside area – to apply for those tickets, you’ll need to enter your postcode. A detailed guide for booking tickets is available here. BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend in Middlesbrough will take place on the 24th and 25th May Sign up to the RadioTimes.com email newsletter
BBC Radio 1 breakfast show listening figures rise under new host Greg James
The Radio 1 breakfast host has added over 300,000 listeners since taking over from Nick Grimshaw in August 2018
Greg James has added 300,000 listeners to the BBC Radio 1 breakfast show since taking over from previous presenter Nick Grimshaw. The DJ and presenter has seen Radio 1 breakfast show listening figures rise since taking over from Grimshaw in August 2018. 5.59 million listeners per week tuned in to the Radio 1 breakfast show between 17th September and 16th December 2018 – up more than 300,000 listeners on the previous quarter’s 5.28 million listeners per week. Why is radio so popular in the UK at the moment? What's happening at Radio 2? John Humphrys confirms that he is leaving Today The figures provided by ratings body Rajar cover the transition between the two hosts and are the first official indicator of how James, who took over from Grimshaw on 20th August last year, has fared. Grimshaw left the breakfast show on 9th August, but continues to present on Radio 1 between 4pm and 7pm. “It’s brilliant that our new and fresh Radio 1 Breakfast Show is doing so well," said director of BBC Radio and Music Bob Shennan. "Greg James is a superb DJ and we know his listeners love the show." According to the figures, BBC radio’s overall share was slightly down across all the networks. It reached 33.9 million weekly listeners across all services, down from 34.3 million over the previous three months. BBC Radio 1 posted a reach of 10.19 million listeners overall, down from 10.56 million in the previous three months and 10.72 million overall last year. BBC Radio 2’s weekly audience was 14.89m down from 14.64m the previous three months and 9.43m last year. However the last days of The Chris Evans Breakfast Show attracted a high audience, with Evans topping 9.06m listeners per week compared to 8.82m in the previous quarter. Shennan said the slight decline in overall listening figures was due to the busy Christmas period. "We can see that a busy few months for listeners in the run up to Christmas has impacted on all radio listening in the UK, but despite that our radio breakfast shows demonstrate what an important role live radio still plays in people’s daily lives with millions waking up to BBC Radio, whether it’s for brilliant music, great guests or comprehensive news coverage," he said. “Nearly 9 in 10 people continue to listen to radio in the UK but as we know listening habits are changing. We’ve made great strides in reinventing our overall audio offer so that audiences now and in the future can discover the very best of the BBC, whenever they want to. This is paying off and increasing numbers of people are listening to music, radio and podcasts on BBC Sounds with recent record figures.”
Charlie Sloth to leave Radio 1 immediately
The radio presenter announced he would not do his remaining 10 shows days after he stormed the stage at the ARIAS during Edith Bowman's acceptance speech
Charlie Sloth is to leave Radio 1 with immediate effect. The presenter and DJ had announced his departure from shows on Radio 1 and 1Xtra earlier this month, telling fans he had achieved "everything I set out to". Zoe Ball won't be paid the same as Chris Evans for Radio 2 Breakfast Show BBC radio presenter Mark Radcliffe to take break for cancer treatment Sign up for the free RadioTimes.com newsletter But he has since taken to Twitter to state he will not be doing the final 10 shows he had originally agreed on. View oEmbed on the source website The news comes days after Sloth stormed the stage during a radio awards show, delivering an uninvited speech that has drawn comparisons to Kanye West's interruption of Taylor Swift's win at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards. View oEmbed on the source website Sloth was nominated for best specialist music show at the Audio & Radio Industry Awards (ARIAS) – a category he lost out on to Soundtracking with Edith Bowman – prompting him to appear on stage during her acceptance. Bowman made reference to the incident on Twitter the following day... View oEmbed on the source website And Sloth has since tweeted an apology for his actions: View oEmbed on the source website Speaking after accepting the award for station of the year, Radio 1 and 1Xtra controller Ben Cooper said: "I'd just like to say Charlie Sloth has left the building and is leaving Radio 1 and 1Xtra. Apologies".
Nick Grimshaw says "thanks for listening, everybody" as he signs off final Radio 1 Breakfast Show
The DJ, who has been at the helm of the Breakfast Show for six years, is moving to drivetime
Nick Grimshaw signed off his final Radio 1 Breakfast Show by saying "thanks for listening, everybody" as he left the programme after six years. Earlier on the show, Grimshaw recalled how he had wanted to host the iconic slot since he was a kid, saying "it was very specific that I wanted to do the Radio 1 Breakfast Show", citing then-host Sara Cox as his big influence. Nick Grimshaw quits Radio 1 breakfast show Why is Radio 4's Today programme losing so many listeners? Stay up to date with the RadioTimes.com newsletter View oEmbed on the source website "I think that’s because of you, Sara," he said to the presenter, who had also come into the studio to say goodbye to him. "I remember listening and it being fun. It was great having someone northern and fun on the radio." After playing a montage of some of his best bits from the show, including clips from Simon Cowell, Harry Styles, Adele and Daniel Radcliffe, Grimshaw said: "Thank you everybody who works here at Radio 1, everyone who’s worked on the show. Thanks to all the DJs. View oEmbed on the source website "It is so fun coming here. And like I was saying before to Sara, I wanted to do this since I was little and it’s been even better than I thought it would be. So thank you to everybody who’s made it so so good." After thanking listeners who had contributed "mad stories" from their lives by texting in, Grimshaw did his final sign-off: "It’s been the best. I’ve had the time of my life being here and thank you for listening, everybody. Thanks so much. Have an amazing summer – I’m going to go and lie down for three weeks and then I’m going to take over afternoons. I’ll see you very, very soon from 4pm. Thanks for listening everybody." Fellow DJs Cox and Annie Mac were on site to pay tribute to Grimshaw on-air, both saying how much they were going to miss him presenting the programme. Grimmy took over the Breakfast Show in 2012 from Chris Moyles and has become the show’s second longest serving presenter. He’ll hand over his microphone to Greg James, who will become the new host of the flagship BBC radio show in September.
Scarlett Moffatt lands BBC Royal Wedding presenting role
The former Gogglebox star will be providing live updates on Radio 1
Hot on the heels of the news that Dermot O'Leary is to join Huw Edwards and Kirsty Young in fronting BBC1's live coverage of the Royal Wedding, Scarlett Moffatt has confirmed that she too has landed a presenting role with the BBC on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's big day. Dermot O'Leary joins Huw Edwards and Kirsty Young for BBC's Royal Wedding coverage How to watch the Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Stay up to date with the RadioTimes.com newsletter The Windsors first look images reveal Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on their wedding day "So proud to announce I'll be one of the wedding correspondents for the BBC," wrote the former Gogglebox and Saturday Night Takeaway star on her Instagram account. "To say I was excited would be an understatement." https://www.instagram.com/p/BiWU58zjmpt/ Scarlett hasn't quite made it to the front line alongside Huw Edwards and co, though – she'll reportedly be providing hourly updates for Radio 1 on 19th May as part of BBC radio coverage that will also feature Chris Evans, Alan Carr, Mel Sykes and Zoe Ball. View oEmbed on the source website Sign up for the free RadioTimes.com newsletter
Nick Grimshaw scores lowest Radio 1 breakfast show listening figures since records began
Grimmy's weekly figures have dropped below the 5 million mark
With overall youth radio listening figures in decline, even the big hitters are feeling the heat: Nick Grimshaw's show has recorded the lowest listening figures for a BBC Radio 1 breakfast show since RAJAR records began in 1992. From July to September, the show recorded 4.93 million weekly listeners, down from 5.5 million in the previous quarter, but controller Ben Cooper has defended the stats, calling it "the most relevant youth brand in the UK today". A source at Radio 1, speaking to the BBC, pointed to the station's social channels: Radio 1 has 9.4 million subscribers across social media, and an additional 5 million on Youtube. "Grimmy is the number one breakfast show in the UK for young audiences and that's all they really care about", they said. "Teens are addicted to their phones so you can see why Radio 1 does so well on YouTube and Facebook." There was, however, growth across other stations. Roman Kemp's Capital London breakfast show increased its audience by 33,000 in the third quarter, up to 1.1 million, while Chris Moyles' show on Radio X pulled in a further 77,000, up to 823,000. BBC saw growth in Radio 2, with Ken Bruce achieving a record weekly reach of 8.7 million, up from 8.3 million in the second quarter, and Chris Evans' BBC Radio 2 breakfast show attracted 9.35 million listeners a week in the third quarter of this year, up from 9.01 million in the second quarter.
Jay Z, Miley Cyrus, Harry Styles and more join Radio 1's Live Lounge Month
The stars will join in with celebrations of Radio 1's 50th anniversary
BBC Radio 1 celebrates its 50th anniversary in September, and to celebrate it has lined up a whole month's worth of incredible Live Lounge performers to join in with the festivities. Jay Z, Harry Styles, Miley Cyrus and Chris Martin and many more will take to the Live Lounge to perform hits from the last 50 years. View oEmbed on the source website Radio 1's Clara Amfo announced today that there will be daily performances between Monday-Friday from 1-29 September, kicking off with a Foo Fighters show broadcast live from their own LA studio. The shows will feature emerging acts as well as established popstars. Amfo will host each performance on her weekday Radio 1 show between 10am-1pm. Each Friday throughout the month there will be extended Live Lounge sets from the Foo Fighters, P!nk, Miley Cyrus and Jay Z, and on the final Friday there will be an evening concert in front of a live audience, to be broadcast live on Radio 1. Amfo is rather excited about getting things started: "This year's Live Lounge Month has me more excited for our listeners than ever. From LA back to our studios in the UK, there are 50 great years of Radio 1 to celebrate with all of the artists and I can't wait for it to kick off!" Check out the full Live Lounge Month schedule below Live Lounge Month 1 September Foo Fighters (Live Lounge Special) 4 September Chris Martin 5 September The Script 6 September The xx 7 September 30 Seconds To Mars 8 September Pink (Live Lounge Special) 11 September The Killers 12 September London Grammar 13 September Harry Styles 14 September Stormzy 15 September Miley Cyrus (Live Lounge Special) 18 September Rita Ora 19 September Wolf Alice 20 September George Ezra 21 September Rag ‘N’ Bone Man 22 September Jay-Z (Live Lounge Special) 25 September Craig David 26 September Royal Blood 27 September Rudimental with James Arthur 28 September Lorde 29 September Concert with special guest
Tony Blackburn returns to BBC Radio 1 for station's 50th anniversary
The original Radio 1 breakfast presenter is returning for a three-day 'vintage' celebration of Radio 1's 50th birthday
DJ Tony Blackburn will be returning to the BBC Radio 1 breakfast show when the station celebrates turning 50 years old later this September. The first presenter to broadcast on Radio 1 on 30th September 1967, Blackburn will be back in the host's chair alongside current presenter Nick Grimshaw for the special anniversary broadcast. Other former Radio 1 DJs including Chris Moyles, Simon Mayo and Noel Edmonds will also feature in the three-day celebration, which will see the launch of a special new station called Radio 1 Vintage featuring music compilations and best moments from the past five decades. In total 50 one-hour shows will be made, featuring archive clips from the likes of John Peel, Pete Tong, Annie Nightingale and Jo Whiley. View oEmbed on the source website “Launching Radio 1 on 30 September 1967 is, undoubtedly, the highlight of my career," Blackburn said. "Having worked on the great Pirate radio ships, Caroline and London, being the first DJ on Radio 1 I saw first-hand the impact that the stations had on the British public. It is hard to imagine that there was a time when the BBC would only play 45 minutes of popular music per day and we, as teenagers, had to wait until 7pm in the evening for Radio Luxembourg to come on, and play the music we wanted to hear." He added, "I owe so much to Radio 1 for my long career, to have been there at the beginning and to still be part of the BBC, it has been amazing to see how it has developed over the years to changes in technology, music, demand and, of course, its ever changing audience.” BBC Radio 1 Controller Ben Cooper said that it was going to be "a lot of fun reliving that pop culture and great music", but confirmed to the Guardian that the celebration would not include a look back at the station's 'darker history', and that disgraced former Radio 1 DJ Jimmy Savile would not feature. “I think that part of Radio 1’s history is well documented, so for obvious reasons we are not going to go there,” Cooper said. View oEmbed on the source website Check out the current list of DJs involved in the Radio 1 'Best Of' series below. John Peel Noel Edmonds Janice Long Jackie Brambles Dave Pearce Kenny Everett Johnnie Walker Tommy Vance Kevin Greening Bobby & Nihal Mike Read Ed Stewart Mike Smith Mark Radcliffe Rob Da Bank Alan Freeman Annie Nightingale Mark Goodier Pete Tong Trevor Nelson Zoe Ball Bob Harris Steve Lamacq Sara Cox Tim Westwood Chris Moyles Gary Davies Simon Mayo Mary Anne Hobbs Emperor Rosko Zane Lowe David Jensen Jo Whiley Fabio and Grooverider Fearne Cotton Simon Bates Colin and Edith
BBC Radio 1 Big Weekend ticket details revealed
Though you might struggle to get tickets to see Stormzy, Katy Perry and Little Mix in action
BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend at Burton Constable Hall in Hull is coming to BBC Radio 1, TV and online on the 27th and 28th May, with the likes of Katy Perry, Little Mix, Kings of Leon and Stormzy set to perform – and there’s also a chance you could be there in person. 50,000 tickets will be available from 9.10am on Monday 10 April on Ticketmaster: the tickets are free, but there will be an 'admin' fee of £8.50 to cover ticket processing costs. Tickets are expected to go fairly quickly, so any music fans desperate for a place had better be on their game. Still, if you don’t manage to get hold of any, don’t despair – you can always just catch in on the radio, TV or on your computer, and that way you don’t even have to move too far from the fridge. It’s a win-win, really.
Craig David, please sing us the 7 day weather forecast every morning
Rain all week? Who cares when you've got this smooth mover crooning the bad news
The weather forecast isn't the most thrilling segment of the news – it's more of a dull necessity, like traffic reports and stock market updates. Or, so we thought. Until we heard Craig David singing us the 7 day forecast to the tune of his, similarly titled 90s hit, 7 days on Radio 1. Sure, one may be about scattered showers and the other about seduction – but if Craig's singing, we're listening. So yes, if he could do the traffic reports next, we'd be most grateful. View oEmbed on the source website
Chris Moyles to return to breakfast radio as XFM becomes Radio X
The former 'Saviour of Radio 1' will take on his BBC successor Nick Grimshaw as London's digital station XFM goes national
He called himself the "Saviour of Radio 1", and now XFM hope DJ Chris Moyles will usher in a new era for the station as it transforms into Radio X. Rumours about the new station's lineup have been flying around all summer, but this morning Moyles was confirmed as 'Radio X's' new breakfast show host. That means he'll go head-to-head with the person who replaced him at BBC Radio 1, Nick Grimshaw. The show will run from 6:30am to 10am, with Moyles's first show set to air on Monday 21st September. It will be the first time he's returned to regular radio broadcasting since he hung up his Radio 1 mic in September 2012. View oEmbed on the source website Moyles isn't the only new host to be signed to Radio X. After 10am, he'll hand over to Vernon Kay, who himself left Radio 1 in 2012. Former Big Breakfast and Capital FM presenter Johnny Vaughan will host the drivetime slot, and Ricky Wilson from the Kaiser Chiefs and The Voice will present at weekends. Ashley Tabor, executive president of Global (who own and run XFM), said, “I’ve had a great summer hearing some of the funniest rumours I’ve ever heard. I’m pleased we can now confirm the industry’s best kept secret, we are indeed launching a brand new national radio station on Monday September 21st.” The station claims it will aim to be the "first truly male-focused" radio station in the UK, aiming at 25 - 44-year-olds. "Chris is a broadcasting genius and as Global makes a multi-million pound investment in launching Radio X on a national scale, I couldn't think of anyone better to host the station's breakfast show," added Tabor. Radio X will play rock and guitar-based music, with regular artists on the playlist including Florence And The Machine, Mumford And Sons, Blur and Arctic Monkeys. Moyles will also go on the road in the coming months with a series of live music events. The station will be available to listen nationwide on digital radio, and on 104.9FM in London and 97.7FM in Manchester.
Yes, the Government has struck a hard bargain with the BBC. But don't worry too much, writes Ben Dowell, it's not all doom and gloom and at least the Corporation has some form of financial stablity
When the Chancellor George Osborne rattled his sabre over the weekend and threatened the BBC with his plans to force it to pay for licences for the over 75s there was consternation among the BBC’s supporters. The cost of the commitment – around £650m – represented a little under one fifth of the BBC’s total licence fee revenue (£3.17bn) and would cripple the Corporation, many believed. Osborne's warnings came complete with veiled threats about the BBC’s “imperial” ambitions regarding its online offerings and suggestions that this was an area where it spent £171m in 2013 and could find more room for savings. Here, the doom-mongers wailed, was final proof that the Government was paying back Rupert Murdoch and others for the support most newspapers gave the Tories in the 2015 general election. Here was final proof that the dire warnings issued by the likes of Russell T Davies before the election that the Tories really had it in for the liberal pinko BBC and were determined to kill it had come true. But the truth is rarely that simple. And while there were obvious problems with the process – a behind-the-scenes stitched up deal hurried together in less than a week – greater detail has made it seem less perilous. First the way it was handled. The Chair of the BBC Trust Rona Fairhead didn’t like the way the deal was cooked up, writing to culture secretary John Whittingdale and Osborne with the not unsniffy complaint: “We accept this decision is a legitimate one for the government to take, although we cannot endorse the process by which it has been reached“. But the fact is, in the 20 years I have been writing about the BBC, charter renewal is always done this way – months of posturing, claims of a measured and open process, always coming down to a late night game of brinkmanship between the director-general and the Government. And the fact is that the current DG Lord Hall really has struck quite a good deal for the BBC given the circumstances. The over 75s cost will be phased in, for starters. The first impact of taking on the cost of free licence fees for over-75s will be felt by the BBC in 2018/19, when it will amount to £250m. Its financial commitment will nearly double to £450m the following year, and £750m by 2020/21. There were fears before charter renewal that the BBC would have its licence fee frozen for another ten years, a very real possibility that people like Russell T Davies said would see the BBC endure “death by a thousand cuts”. That is not to be. The licence fee will, the signs are, remain in place for at least another five years, by which time the BBC may be able to work out a way of charging for services in our multi-platform world. And the BBC will have its £145.50 increased in line with inflation. That is what I call a secure financial footing. Hall also secured a promise to introduce legislation within the next year to modernise the licence fee and close a loophole covering catch-up TV. Yes, there are problems. Former DG Lord Birt said yesterday in the House of Lords that the “deeply shocking deal” amounted to a breach of the BBC’s independence. “This has happened again, taking a huge slice out of the BBC’s budget. Again it happened with no public discussion of any kind. This government and the last government have essentially set a very dangerous precedent,” he said. And yes, while people are claiming that the BBC’s independence is compromised by the commitment to pay for over 75s – is it now in the business of funding the Government’s welfare budget? – it is not as if this kind of cost burden is a new thing. Under the terms of the current charter the BBC was committed to funding superfast broadband around the country by 2020 at a cost of around £80m – something Hall has now freed the BBC from in the current pact with the Government. The BBC was always going to face a tough financial future and it is no good pretending that this deal is flawlessly brilliant. There is trouble ahead, many more cost savings to be made, and threats by Whittingdale that decriminalising non-payment of the licence fee will be "carefully considered" by the Government which will not make Hall sleep any easier. Already the perception among a growing section of the population that use iPlayer is that the TV licence is optional. The BBC boss is also not ruling out closing services in future, a threat no doubt dismissed in Whitehall as political posturing, but one which people who enjoyed watching BBC3 on terrestrial TV know can be all too real. But at least the BBC has some sort of security. At least it has not been killed by a thousand cuts. And this is something it can build on. READ MORE BBC faces the calamitous loss of a fifth of its income in the Budget - surely channels and radio stations will soon be under threat A simpler, leaner BBC? Does this just mean more job cuts and even less money? 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