Memorable moments from a colourful radio career

Evans’ reputation as a big beast of Britain’s airwaves has endured since he took over the Radio 1 breakfast show in 1995. His Radio 1 show in the 1990s was marred by controversial features and near-the-knuckle comments. He called most of his listeners “thick”, threatened to kick Anthea Turner in the mouth and accused farmers of having sex with their sheep during a visit to Scotland. He eventually quit in early 1997 and did not go back to work to serve out his notice. Evans flew off the rails following his BBC exit, fully indulging in the dying days of the Britpop era. He married and divorced the then teenage pop star Billie Piper – whom he first wooed by buying her a Ferrari.

His new home after the BBC is also the place he sought refuge in days gone by. Virgin Radio was bought by Evans soon after he left his Radio 1 job and he took over as its star breakfast show host. He sold the station to Scottish Media Group in 2000 – and was sacked the following year for failing to show up for his show for six days. He returned to the BBC as an older, wiser and safer broadcaster. He presented afternoon shows on Radio 2 from 2005, before replacing Sir Terry Wogan in the breakfast slot.