Drumming weatherman is one of BBC’s most wanted ‘moonlighters’
A BBC weatherman is among the most in-demand “moonlighters” at the corporation, it has been disclosed in a newly released register of stars taking work outside the organisation.
Owain Wyn Evans, the BBC Breakfast weatherman known for his viral drumming videos, has been booked for more external engagements than broadcasters like Naga Munchetty and Emily Maitlis. The Welsh presenter was booked for 15 events last year, it was disclosed, as the BBC declared the earnings of “moonlighting” stars who have received the most cash outside the corporation.
Data released as part of a push by Tim Davie, the director-general, to ensure impartiality has revealed that Wyn Evans was booked by organisations including a local council and the retailer Very, making him one of the highest earners from outside sources.
Wyn Evans achieved wider fame in November when he raised £3 million for Children in Need with a 24-hour drumathon
Barra Best, a fellow weatherman, based in Northern Island, was also in demand and booked 11 times across the past year.
Mark Easton, the home affairs editor was paid for 15 engagements, and Razia Iqbal, a correspondent, for 16, the highest number. Their engagements were mainly categorised as being worth “below £5,000” in BBC data. Household names at the BBC were booked for more events worth “above £5,000”, with Justin Webb, the host of Today who earns around £250,000 year, being booked for eight outside jobs worth more than £5,000 each.
Munchetty, who earns more than £255,000 a year, was booked for seven events worth more than £5,000, and Maitlis, the Newsnight presenter, who is paid more than £325,000 annually, secured five.
Huw Edwards, the news presenter, secured four £5000-plus jobs, including from rival media companies, and Dan Walker, the BBC Breakfast presenter, received money from the Co-op among his three outside gigs. Banks, investment companies, universities, councils, law firms, museums, literary festivals, and racecourses have secured the services of members of BBC staff.
The BBC said: “All the events listed were approved prior to being undertaken and meet the BBC’s rigorous editorial guidelines.
“The external events register forms part of the BBC’s renewed commitment to ensure the highest standards of impartiality across the organisation.”