GK Barry’s BBC Radio 1 debut has been criticised by listeners, with some questioning the decision to use her pre-recorded programme in a slot previously associated with Mollie King and Matt Edmondson.
The social media personality began a six-week run on the station on Thursday, with her show scheduled for the 1pm slot. However, listeners were disappointed to find that the programme had not been broadcast live.
Some took to social media to argue that the recorded format did not justify replacing the familiar Matt and Mollie show, which had built up a loyal audience during its time on Radio 1.
GK Barry, whose real name is Grace Keeling, was announced as part of a major BBC Radio 1 schedule shake-up. The broadcaster said her new series would feature music, celebrity guests and the humour associated with her podcast work.
The changes also saw a number of established presenters leave the station, as Radio 1 introduced new programmes and moved towards a refreshed line-up aimed at younger listeners.
Radio 1’s updated schedule lists The GK Barry Show as running from 1pm, with the series beginning on September 10. The BBC has not indicated that the programme will become a regular live broadcast.
