BBC Radio 1 has axed six long-serving presenters, including Rickie Haywood-Williams, Melvin Odoom, and Dean McCullough, as part of a major lineup overhaul. The station is replacing them with social media influencers and reality TV stars, including GK Barry, TikTok personalities Charley Marlowe, Mylo & Rosie, and Emil Franchi.
Departures announced on Instagram
Announcing the news on Instagram, Radio 1 said: “We thank them for their passion, creativity and dedication and wish them all the very best for whatever comes next.” The six presenters leaving are Rickie Haywood-Williams, Melvin Odoom, Dean McCullough, Nat O’Leary, James Cusack, and Swarzy.
History of the departing presenters
Melvin Odoom joined Radio 1 in 2019 after moving from the highly successful Kiss Breakfast Show, where he co-hosted with Rickie and Charlie. At Radio 1, they hosted the late-night slot from 9pm to 11pm before switching to the mid-morning slot in 2021. Dean McCullough began covering for major presenters in 2020, took over Scott Mills’ former Afternoon Show in 2022, and had been presenting early breakfast since 2024.
I'm a Celebrity connection
Both Melvin and Dean appeared on I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! in 2024. During the show, Melvin famously nicknamed Dean “Houdini” after noticing he would disappear whenever chores needed to be done.
Influencer hires continue trend
This is not the first time Radio 1 has hired reality stars and influencers. In May 2025, Jamie Laing and his wife Sophie Habboo joined the team to host the afternoon slot.
