Dean McCullough has left BBC Radio 1 after his final Early Breakfast programme, saying that moving from LGBTQ+ station Gaydio to the BBC meant he had “sacrificed” his public views and part of his voice.
The Northern Irish presenter, 34, was among six Radio 1 DJs to depart as part of a major schedule overhaul. He was pictured smiling as he left the station’s studios on Thursday, carrying flowers and leaving gifts.
McCullough became emotional during his final broadcast on September 3, telling listeners that he was experiencing “loads of emotions” before breaking down while thanking colleagues who had supported him during his six years at the BBC.
His departure follows remarks he made on Instagram before the programme, reflecting on the transition from Gaydio, where he had spent three and a half years speaking openly and expressing strong opinions on air.
“Moving to the BBC meant sacrificing my public views and in tern, a part of my voice,” he wrote. “It’s not been easy and I’ve had to do a lot of my advocacy in the shadows.”
McCullough said he had initially been nervous about whether he would be able to remain “out and proud and unapologetically gay” after joining Radio 1 in 2020.
He recalled wondering whether managers would ask him to tone down his manner of speaking, but said that this had not happened. Although he had faced some “horrific” online comments, he said the overwhelming response from listeners had been supportive.
BBC presenters are subject to editorial impartiality rules, which warn that publicly expressing personal approval, offence or indignation could affect perceptions of the corporation’s impartiality.
McCullough said his time at Radio 1 had nevertheless allowed him to be himself and encouraged listeners not to change who they were to fit into a workplace, relationship or other setting.
“If I’ve learnt anything in my 16 years of being a presenter it’s ‘speak from your heart and the right people will hear you’,” he said.
Radio 1 schedule shake-up
Radio 1 announced in July that McCullough would leave alongside Rickie Haywood-Williams, Melvin Odoom, Nat O’Leary, James Cusack and Swarzy.
In a statement at the time, the station thanked the presenters for their “passion, creativity and dedication” and wished them well for the future.
Award-winning duo Mylo & Rosie will take over McCullough’s Early Breakfast slot after their decade at Hits Radio West Yorkshire. New additions to the wider schedule include internet personality GK Barry and influencer Charley Marlowe.
GK Barry will host a six-week run of programmes from September 10, while Charley Marlowe will join Vicky Hawkesworth on the Friday-to-Sunday daytime slot. Emil Franchi will present Weekend Breakfast.
McCullough announced his departure on Wednesday, describing it as a difficult decision but saying he was ready for “a change” and “vvvv excited” about what comes next.
