Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Fearne Cotton to replace Jo Whiley

Press Association
Thursday 16 July 2009 14:29 BST
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Jo Whiley is to be dropped from her prime Radio 1 morning slot after eight years, with Fearne Cotton taking over.

The 44-year-old presenter, who hosts the 10am mid-morning show, will leave in September and take up a new weekend programme.

Also leaving her weekday show is Edith Bowman, who vacates her 1pm show and heads to the weekend breakfast programme. She will be replaced by early morning presenter Greg James.

Jo had previously hosted a lunchtime show for Radio 1, as well as the Evening Session with Steve Lamacq.

She said on Thursday: "After eight wonderful years the time has come to move on and give someone else the privilege of entertaining the nation on a daily basis. I've had the most amazing time ever.

"The prospect of lie-ins, taking my kids to school and doing something new is, I confess, rather exciting. I will, of course, be taking the keys to the Live Lounge (her live music spot) with me to my new weekend show - so the live music will continue - but I'll be leaving behind a spare set for Fearne."

Fearne said of her role: "I love being at Radio 1 and taking on a weekday show is a dream come true.

"Jo is leaving very big shoes for me to fill and it's nerve-wracking. She has been a massive inspiration to me throughout my career so I have a high standard to live up to."

Fearne already co-hosts weekend shows with Reggie Yates, which he will now continue to present alone. Other changes include weekend breakfast host Dev moving to the early breakfast show vacated by Greg James.

The changes kick in on September 21.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in