The BBC’s acting boss has urged staffers to recognize the “pressure” placed on Scott Mills’ team following the swift sacking of the top radio presenter.
Mills’ exit was revealed this morning following allegations over his personal conduct, which we understand involve a past relationship.
Making his first remarks about Mills, who presented the popular BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show and was with the BBC for nearly 30 years, Rhodri Talfan Davies said: “I just want to recognise the pressure this puts on [the Radio 2 team], many of whom have worked with Scott for many years.”
“Of course, it will also be a shock to our audience and loyal Radio 2 Breakfast Show listeners,” added Talfan Davies. “The Radio 2 team will update everyone with more information on plans for the show when they are able to. As Lorna Clarke, our Director of Music, acknowledged in an earlier message to her team, this will come as a shock to many of you given Scott’s profile and the sudden nature of this announcement.”
He added that he hopes staff “all understand that we are not able to share any more information.”
First big test
The Mills saga is the first big test for Talfan Davies, who is acting Director General for the next six weeks until Matt Brittin takes over. Tim Davie officially leaves later this week.
Mills was taken off air last Tuesday and had his contract terminated over the weekend.
All eyes now on who replaces Mills and how the BBC handles his shock exit. His place this morning was taken by Gary Davies, who interviewed The Pitt star Noah Wyle. He is also due to host upcoming BBC podcast Race Across the World: The Detour.
Mills took over from Zoe Ball presenting one of the BBC’s most popular shows, the BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show, last year. The 53-year-old, who was paid nearly £360,000 ($476,000) last year, had for nearly 20 years prior presented the Scott Mills Show on BBC Radio 1 and is one of the most familiar voices on BBC radio.
We have contacted Mills’ agent for comment on his sacking.