Jamie Laing has spoken out after being named as the new host of BBC Radio 1’s Drivetime Show, which has sparked some fury among listeners.
Laing, 35, was announced on Friday as Jordan North’s replacement on the show, which many of North’s loyal fans have blasted.
Following the news, it was reported North would be moving to Capital FM and he is thought to be taking over from Roman Kemp, who’s hosted the Capital Breakfast Show for seven years.
The news hasn’t gone down well with Radio 1 fans though, with some backlash following the announcement as many claimed North had worked hard to get the role and was more deserving than reality star Laing.
Seemingly addressing this, Laing took to social media to applaud North for his time on the radio show, which he’s hosted since 2021.
The former Made in Chelsea issued a statement on his Instagram, labelling North “a legend” as he talked about being "excited" to step into the role.
Jamie Laing has been named as Jordan North's replacement
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He penned: “Guys, firstly I’m beyond excited to be joining the amazing Vick Hope on @BBCRadio1 Drivetime Show.
“@JordanNorth1 is a complete pro/legend. He’s left some really big shoes to fill so I’m going to do my absolute best to do him and the show justice.
“And to be working alongside the insane @VickNHope is amazing. I’ve always loved music and radio and grew up a Radio 1 fan. So to be joining the BBC Radio 1 family officially feels unreal.
“Lots of you may know I’m never happier than when in front on the mic, chatting to people, sharing stories having fun. And to continue that on Drivetime is going to be wild in the best way.”
Laing has faced criticism for his new role on BBC Radio 1
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Laing concluded: “I will pour everything I have into making it the best show I possibly can for the listeners who love it so much. Now, let’s go!! Radio 1 baby! Jamie x”
On Saturday, the Candy Kittens founder hinted he was hurt by the backlash as he shared a screenshot from a comment section of a MailOnline article reporting on his new gig.
It read: “You’re kidding Jamie Laing. Who on this earth would want to listen to his pompous nonsense. We need Meritocracy brought back in order for ordinary people to stand any chance of being considered.”
Laing wrote: “[First] comment in and might be a bit too truthful…probably stop there for the day.” (sic)
Addressing his surprise departure from the show, North also took to social media recently to bid a farewell to his listeners.
Jordan North's fans have slammed Jamie Laing
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Jordan North issued a goodbye statement to his listeners
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He commented: “Hello everyone I just wanted to take this opportunity to thank all my wonderful colleagues / talented producers at Radio 1 who many I consider to be friends for life and will miss greatly, you’ve all reached out to me over the past 24 hours and it really has meant a lot.
"To my amazing fellow presenters I wish I could thank you all personally, I’ve loved working with you it’s been an absolute blast!
“Big love to Katie Thisleton, Arielle Free, Ricky, Melvin & Charlie, Dean & Vicky, Clara Amfo, Matt & Molly, Scott Mills, Grimmy, all the rest of you fantastic lot, and of course my partner in crime Vick Hope…I’ll miss being on air with you every day.
"MOST IMPORTANTLY the biggest of thank yous to the fantastic listeners who have been really generous and always made me feel welcome, your kind words & messages have been so lovely, THANK YOU SO MUCH. I’ll be back soon, and can’t wait to see you all again.” (sic)