The BBC has released its annual salary report, unveiling the eye-watering earnings of its top presenters. Football pundit Gary Lineker remains the highest-paid star, pocketing a staggering £1.35 million, while radio host Zoe Ball follows closely behind.
The report comes amid ongoing scrutiny of the broadcaster's handling of the Huw Edwards scandal, which the BBC acknowledges as "appalling" in its findings.
Top Earners at the Beeb
Gary Lineker's £1.35 million salary maintains his position as the BBC's highest-paid presenter for another year. The Match of the Day host's earnings have remained consistent despite recent controversies surrounding his political commentary on social media.
Zoe Ball, host of Radio 2's Breakfast Show, secured second place in the salary rankings. While her exact figure wasn't disclosed, insiders suggest it approaches seven figures.
Scandal Fallout
The annual report makes uncomfortable reading for BBC executives, with multiple references to the "serious failings" in their handling of allegations against former newsreader Huw Edwards. The corporation admits the revelations have damaged public trust in the broadcaster.
"We recognise these events have caused significant distress," the report states, referring to the Edwards scandal that rocked the BBC last year.
Gender Pay Gap Progress?
The report claims the corporation has made "significant progress" in addressing gender pay disparities, though critics argue more needs to be done. Several high-profile female presenters have reportedly received pay rises to bring them in line with male colleagues.
However, the list of top earners remains dominated by male presenters, with only Zoe Ball featuring in the highest brackets.
Viewer Backlash
News of the salaries has sparked fresh debate about licence fee spending, with many questioning whether such high payments represent value for money. Social media reaction has been mixed, with some defending the stars' market value while others call for greater restraint.
The BBC maintains that top talent salaries are necessary to compete with commercial rivals, though acknowledges the need for "continued restraint" in difficult financial times.
