Greg James' annual behind-the-scenes tour of BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend in Sunderland has once again delighted fans, but a particular moment has been flagged as 'awkward' by viewers. The presenter, sporting a Sunderland AFC shirt in honour of the host city, took to Instagram to share a glimpse of the dressing rooms backstage.
The Dressing Room Tour
Greg kicked off the tour with a brief encounter with his ex-girlfriend, Ellie Goulding. The pair dated for around 18 months before parting ways in 2012. In the video, Greg teased that they were live, catching a relaxed Ellie off guard as she unwound after her performance. When Greg clarified it was a dressing room tour, he shifted focus to Ellie's partner, Beau Minniear, an American actor who welcomed a child with Ellie in March.
Beau, wearing a vest top that showcased his impressive physique, was holding Ellie's bag. Greg remarked, "Can I just say something? You've got amazing arms. Can you just pop your arm out the door?" Beau, looking slightly perplexed, complied by extending the bag out of the room. Greg then swiftly moved on, saying, "I'm gonna move on. Love you, bye," leaving Ellie waving.
Fan Reactions
The interaction sparked a flurry of comments from fans. One user wrote, "@greg_james radio 1 would be nothing without you!!!" while another noted, "Awkwardly bumping into your ex and her new bloke 'nice arms'!" A third fan, however, saw it as "not awkward" but "gorgeous," to which Greg replied, "As is Beau."
Greg also expressed his love for the North East, posting earlier about the Big Weekend returning to Sunderland after two decades. He praised the city's welcoming atmosphere, food, music scene, and student radio station SPARK, as well as the local football team's kit and pubs.
The weekend kicked off with a standout set from Fatboy Slim, who closed Friday night after performances by Sonny Fodera and MK. The three-day event also featured Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson, Zara Larsson, and concluded with Olivia Dean.
