The early frontrunners to take over the BBC Radio 2 breakfast show have emerged just hours after Scott Mills was dismissed from the BBC.
The 53-year-old was axed by the corporation following an allegation concerning his personal conduct.
Scott Mills was axed by the BBC on Monday | BBCMr Mills last featured on his Radio 2 breakfast programme last Tuesday before being replaced by fellow DJ Gary Davies on Wednesday.
The BBC issued a statement on Monday confirming his departure: "While we do not comment on matters relating to individuals, we can confirm Scott Mills is no longer contracted to work with the BBC."
Scott Mills was one of the BBC's highest paid radio stars | BBCStaff at the corporation were also informed of the news on Monday morning by Lorna Clarke, Director of Music.
In her communication to colleagues, Ms Clarke acknowledged the abrupt nature of the announcement: "I wanted to personally let you know that Scott Mills has left the Breakfast show, and the BBC.
"I know that this news will be sudden and unexpected and therefore must come as a shock."
She noted the presenter's extensive history with the organisation: "Not least as so many of us have worked with Scott over a great many years, across a broad range of our programmes on R1, 5Live, R2 and TV."
Scott Mills was axed over allegations against his personal conduct | BBCMs Clarke indicated she would provide further details about the programme's future when possible.
In the wake of his departure, regular listeners to his show have been theorising who will be the next person to take on the coveted breakfast slot.
And now, bookmakers have shortlisted a handful of famous faces who they feel are in the frame to step into the void left by Mr Mills.
Spokesperson for William Hill, Lee Phelps, explained all to GB News. "With Scott Mills’ departure from BBC Radio 2 confirmed, attention has quickly turned to who takes on one of the biggest roles in UK radio," he began.
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Vernon Kay (left) has been tipped as a possible Scott Mills replacement
|BBC
"Our early betting has Vernon Kay out in front at 6/4, but right behind him is Gary Davies at 5/2 and OJ Borg at 11/4, having previously hosted the show.
"Other potential candidates include Rylan Clark (7/2), Clara Amfo (4/1) and Tony Blackburn (6/1), followed by Strictly Come Dancing and Traitors presenter Claudia Winkleman (8/1)."
There were a handful of outside shouts, however. "Joe Wilkinson and Alex Horne are 10/1 and 20/1 respectively to replace Mills on one of the flagship BBC Radio shows," Mr Phelps added.
The race to replace Mr Mills brings to an end an association with the BBC that stretches back nearly three decades. Mr Mills first joined Radio 1 in 1998 as an early breakfast presenter.
Former BBC Radio 1 presenter Clara Amfo is also among the possible replacements
|PA
His profile grew substantially in 2005 when he moved to an early-evening weekday position, initially covering for Sara Cox during her maternity leave before permanently taking over the slot.
The Scott Mills Show became a fixture on Radio 1 for almost two decades.
In 2022, he transitioned to Radio 2, occupying the afternoon programme previously hosted by Steve Wright.
His elevation to the breakfast show came in January 2025 when Zoe Ball departed the role.
Gary Davies stepped in for Scott Mills following his final Radio 2 breakfast show
|BBC
The BBC is yet to confirm who will take over the role on a permanent basis following Mr Mills' exit.
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