Scott Mills, the legendary Radio 1 presenter, has announced his departure from the station after 24 years. He will be moving to Radio 2 to take over the afternoon show from Steve Wright. Mills joined Radio 1 in 1998 and has since become a beloved figure, amassing a dedicated fan base.
In a statement, Mills said: 'Time actually does fly when you're having fun, and that's certainly been the case over the past 24 years at my beloved Radio 1. The station I pretended to be on in my bedroom from the age of six. The station I told my mum I wanted to work at, but never in a million years thought I would.' True to form, he had a celebrity friend announce his departure.
Mills is known for his memorable radio features, including the popular game 'Innuendo Bingo', where contestants try not to laugh while keeping water in their mouths. The game was paused during the pandemic but has since made a triumphant return. Other fan favourites include 'The Who Game', 'Granny Tinder', and 'Brother or Lover'.
His long-time co-host Chris Stark, who joined the show in 2012, is also leaving Radio 1. Stark said: 'To wake up every day over the last 10 years and get to work with one of my best friends on a show I love is a dream come true. Radio 1 has sound-tracked the biggest ups and downs in my life.'
The duo's chemistry was so strong that Hollywood star Jennifer Aniston once helped Mills prank Stark during a nightmare interview. In 2021, they raised over £500,000 for Comic Relief with a 24-hour show featuring stars like Little Mix and KSI.
Head of BBC Radio 1, Aled Haydn Jones, thanked both Mills and Stark 'for everything they have done for the station'.
