Love for Michael as the Wright choice..
New Radio 2 roles for Ball & McGuinness
MICHAEL Ball is the new host of Sunday Love Songs on BBC Radio 2, replacing Steve Wright who died aged 69 in February.
West End star Ball, 61, said he was excited to present the show, which will be on between 9am and 11am starting from June.
His current 11am-1pm slot will be taken over by Paddy McGuinness.
Ball told his new listeners: “Steve made Love Songs ‘appointment to listen’ radio. I’m a little nervous to be tasked with the chance to continue with his extraordinary legacy.
“Beautiful, moving, relaxing and uplifting music to lift the soul on a Sunday morning, coupled with the stories, suggestions, requests and precious memories from you, the listener, will ensure that this won’t be just MY show, but OUR show.
“I hope you will join us as we continue to share the love.”
Wright continued to present Love Songs even after he stepped down from his weekday afternoon show on Radio 2 in September 2022.
Since his death, Nicki Chapman has filled in on the Love Songs slot.
McGuinness began presenting on Radio 2 last year, when he covered the pop quiz Ten To The Top while Vernon Kay was away fundraising for Children In Need.
He has recently been sitting in for Rylan Clark on Saturday afternoons and presented two shows over the Easter weekend.
The 50-year-old Top Gear star
I’m a little nervous to continue Steve’s legacy
MICHAEL BALL ON TAKING WRIGHT’S SLOT
said: “I’ve loved keeping Rylan’s seat warm on Saturday afternoons and returning to the airwaves over Easter.
“To be given my very own regular show on the legendary Radio 2 is a dream come true.”
The decision got a mixed reaction. Listener Phil Taylor-Jones said: “Just shows how out of touch Radio 2 management are. Good move for
Michael Ball, but replacing him with Paddy McGuinness! Really?”
Others said there were too many celebs being given radio slots instead of established DJs.
Helen Thomas, head of Radio 2, said: “Paddy made a huge impression on our listeners.”