Six Radio 1 presenters replaced by influencers in huge switch-up

BBC Radio 1 presenters Rickie Haywood-Williams, Melvin Odoom, Dean McCullough, Nat O’Leary, James Cusack and Swarzy have all been axed for influencers.

The likes of Loose Women star GK Barry, TikTok influencers Charley Marlowe and Mylo & Rosie and Emil Franchi have been named as the new presenters.

Charlie Hedges and Jeremiah Asiamah will also become the new hosts of BBC Radio 1’s Live Lounge.

“We thank them for their passion, creativity and dedication and wish them all the very best for whatever comes next,” the station said on Instagram.

Barry, who rose to fame on TikTok and hosts the Saving Grace podcast, said she is 'really excited' to get started.

“I am really excited to be back hosting a series of my own BBC Radio 1 shows from this September," she said.

'I promise a lot of humour, chaos and embarrassing stories'

The new line-up (BBC)

“You’ll be hearing my favourite songs, we'll be speaking with some really exciting guests and as always, in true GK Barry style, I promise a lot of humour, chaos and embarrassing stories along the way!”

Hedges added: "I’m so excited to be hosting the iconic Live Lounge with Jerry! We’re a bit chaotic whenever we get together, so bringing that energy live to Radio 1 with some of the biggest artists in the world is going to be wild.

"I also want to send all my love and respect to Melvin and Rickie. They’ve been such an important part of my journey, and I’ll be cheering them on in whatever they choose to do next."

The BBC said in a press release that they wish the departing hosts 'all the very best for whatever comes next'.

'We are incredibly grateful'

Rickie Haywood-Williams (left) and Melvin Odoom (right) have been replaced as BBC Radio 1 presenters (Joseph Okpako/Getty Images)

Aled Haydn Jones, Head of BBC Radio 1, noted that the corporation is 'incredibly grateful for everything they've contributed to the station'.

Rickie and Melvin said: “It’s hard to believe it’s been seven years since we first stepped into the studio in 2019.

“Presenting on the station has been an unforgettable experience, and we are incredibly grateful to the entire team and, most importantly, our brilliant listeners.

“From starting out on the late-night show to hosting the Live Lounge, we have made so many amazing memories that we'll take with us. We are so proud of everything we’ve achieved here and couldn't be more excited for the next chapter.”

Rickie added: “The absolute highlights for me were heading to Amsterdam to hide out as part of the Radio 1 DJ Hunt, and hosting Usher for an incredible performance in the Live Lounge.”