Sam Darlaston, the former KISS FM host who shocked fans with his abrupt departure last month, is set to return to the airwaves tomorrow on BBC Radio 1's Early Breakfast show. The 33-year-old will begin his new role at 5am, taking over a slot previously held by Greg James, now one of Radio 1's biggest names.
New Chapter After 11 Years at KISS
Darlaston spent 11 years at KISS FM, presenting the Weekend Breakfast show since 2022. He announced his exit on June 12 via Instagram, posting: "Some news... cya KISS, it's been real. This weekend will be my final shows. As you can see, I've hit puberty since joining, and really gone on to blossom. Had the time of my life."
In his farewell message, he hinted at future plans: "Back on air soon, will let ya know where and when you're welcome to guess in the comments."
Insider Predicts Success
A source told the Mirror: "It's a hugely exciting time for Sam joining the Early Breakfast slot. Some huge names have gone before him, Greg James being one of them and now he's one of BBC 1's biggest names on the roster."
The insider added: "He'll bring a wealth of experience from his Kiss FM days and his podcast, 'Embarrassing For No Reason' and has already built up quite the following, so it's guaranteed that he'll be a hit with listeners as he wakes them up over the summer."
Fan Reactions and Background
Fans expressed disappointment at his KISS exit but eagerly await his return. One wrote: "Oh no gutted me and my daughter love listening to you Sam!" Another hoped he would move to Capital FM, while a third speculated about a return to KISS Dance.
Darlaston previously credited his time at the University of Bedfordshire's student radio station for laying the groundwork for his broadcasting career. He said: "My three years at Bedfordshire provided me with the best education; I've loved it. I arrived wanting to be an actor, but now hopefully everything I've done on the course, like the radio unit, will set me up now for my role at KISS."
