Branson: Evans move is not about money
RICHARD Branson yesterday dismissed suggestions that Chris Evans’s move from BBC Radio 2 to Virgin Radio was motivated by money.
Virgin is said to be paying Evans £2million a year. But Sir Richard insisted that the switch was all about a change and editorial freedom.
And Branson, 68, revealed he suggested the move when he appeared as a guest on Evans’ BBC Breakfast Show last October.
He said: “I was going for an interview with him on the Beeb.
“It was perhaps a slight discourtesy to the Beeb, but I did suggest a change of scenery might be good for him.”
Branson, who previously employed the 52-year-old as Virgin’s breakfast host from 1997 to 2001, told Good Morning Britain: “Thirty ears ago, I jumped on Concorde, much against my best wishes, because he (Evans) was travelling to New York – to try and persuade him to join Virgin Radio, and we ended up being successful then.”
Branson said the switch was also about creative control. He added: “I have no idea what he was earning at the BBC – or even what he’s earning at Virgin. He just wanted a change.
“Virgin gives him more freedom than the BBC – and Chris is someone who values freedom over salary. This will put Virgin on the map.”
Evans’ announcement – made on Monday’s show – stunned listeners, who have grown accustomed to waking up with Sir Terry Wogan’s successor in the popular morning slot since his appointment eight years ago.
However there has been speculation that Evans opted to change stations at least in part after receiving a backlash over his pay when the BBC published its top earners’ list last year.
Only Gary Lineker earned more than Evans, who was paid up to £1.7million in the most recent financial year.
Evans, who saw his listening figures rise from eight million to 9.3 million, said: “I have absolutely loved every single moment of my time at Radio 2. I have learnt so much from so many people to whom I will be eternally grateful.”
His last show will be in December, he announced yesterday.