The BBC has dismissed Radio 2 breakfast show presenter Scott Mills following allegations about his personal conduct, marking the latest crisis for the broadcaster. Mills, who hosted the UK's most popular radio breakfast show, was reportedly blindsided by the decision to terminate his contract last Tuesday.
According to reports, the allegations relate to a 'historic relationship' dating back more than ten years. The BBC declined to comment on individual cases but confirmed in a statement: 'While we do not comment on matters relating to individuals, we can confirm Scott Mills is no longer contracted and has left the BBC.'
Mills, 53, took over the Radio 2 breakfast show from Zoe Ball in January 2025 and grew the audience to 6.5 million listeners. He joined Radio 2 in 2022 after a long career at Radio 1 and Radio 5 Live. His dismissal comes as Tim Davie prepares to step down as director general, with Matt Brittin set to take over.
Lorna Clarke, the BBC's director of music, informed staff of Mills' departure in an internal email, describing the news as 'sudden and unexpected'. She added that she would update colleagues on plans for the show when possible. Mills' place on Monday was taken by Gary Davies, with Davies and OJ Borg confirmed as temporary replacements for the next week.
Mills apparently did not know he would not return when he signed off on 24 March, telling listeners: 'See you tomorrow.' Fellow presenter Jeremy Vine said he was 'taken aback' by the news, learning of it only through the BBC website. A Radio 2 source told Deadline they had been 'completely blindsided'.
Mills was paid between £355,000 and £359,999 annually, according to the BBC's 2024-25 pay report. He joined Radio 1 in 1998 and wrote in his autobiography about his early struggles on air. His dismissal follows other high-profile conduct cases involving Huw Edwards and Tim Westwood.
