Carol Vorderman has launched a fresh critique of the BBC, asserting her unique status as the only presenter to have been dismissed twice by the broadcaster during her career. The former Radio Wales host made the remarks during a recent podcast appearance, where she detailed the circumstances surrounding both terminations.
First Sacking in the 1990s
Vorderman first joined the BBC in 1994 as co-presenter of the science and technology programme Tomorrow's World. However, her tenure lasted less than a year before she departed following concerns raised by BBC executives about her involvement in filming advertisements while appearing on the show. At the time, Vorderman was also a prominent figure on Channel 4's Countdown, a role she was reluctant to relinquish despite pressure from the BBC.
Contractual Disputes and Advertising Conflicts
She explained that BBC bosses had initially approached her with an offer to host Tomorrow's World, citing market research that identified her as a suitable fit. However, they insisted she quit Countdown, which she refused due to the significant pay disparity. "I said, 'Are they having a laugh? I've been paid four times more to do Countdown than that," Vorderman recounted. After negotiations, she agreed to take on the BBC role while continuing with Countdown, but tensions escalated when the corporation demanded she abandon the Channel 4 programme to become their "biggest female name in prime time."
When Vorderman stood her ground, the BBC cited her advertising work for products like washing powder as a breach of policy, leading to her dismissal. She fought back publicly, writing articles in newspapers such as The Sun to contest the decision, noting that other BBC stars like Terry Wogan and Gary Rhodes were also engaged in advertising without similar repercussions.
Second Sacking in 2023
Vorderman rejoined the BBC in 2019 as a Saturday morning presenter on Radio Wales, but her second stint ended abruptly in 2023. This time, bosses raised concerns about her anti-government social media posts, which criticised the Conservative administration. Vorderman stated she was "not prepared to lose my voice" on social issues, leading to her departure from the station.
Pride in Political Stance
On the Off Air with Jane and Fi podcast, Vorderman was asked about being "biffed off" by the BBC for her outspoken views. The 65-year-old responded, "I rail against things that are wrong in society, that's where I do my shouting, not in the house." She expressed pride in her unique dismissal record, even having a badge made that reads, "Sacked twice by the BBC."
Reflecting on the 2023 incident, Vorderman emphasised her commitment to speaking out, despite the professional consequences. She highlighted the broader context of media freedom and the challenges faced by public figures who engage in political commentary.
Aftermath and Legacy
Following her first sacking, Vorderman claims the BBC eventually offered to reinstate her, but with the caveat that they would deny the offer if she disclosed it publicly. She rejected this, instructing her manager to "string them along" before ultimately refusing to return. This experience reinforced her independent streak, as she had already established a backup plan with her own TV production company, which created educational videos for the national curriculum.
Vorderman's career has been marked by resilience and diversification, from her early days on Countdown to her ventures in media production. Her story underscores ongoing debates about impartiality, freedom of expression, and the relationship between broadcasters and their on-air talent in the UK's evolving media landscape.
