BBC Radio 2 listeners vow to ‘boycott’ station as Steve Wright replacement spark outrage

BBC listeners have been left less than impressed by the announcement that there’s new programming and specials on the way following the death of Steve Wright. The long-running radio host sadly died back in February at the age of 69 and was known for his Sunday Love Songs show. This week, it was announced that Michael Ball will be taking over.

From June, people can listen to Love Songs with Michael Ball from 9-11 am. However, that’s not the only change to the station as Paddy McGuinness will have a new Sunday show from 11am to 1pm.

Following the announcement, BBC fans aren’t too pleased with the replacements. Taking to Twitter to share their thoughts @dougray71 said: “Seriously @BBCRadio2 can you not find fresh talent from local radio instead of awful ‘celebrities’. No wonder folk are turning off.”

@andros_andy commented: “What is the BBC obsession with constantly pushing the talentless Paddy McGuinness on us? Another Sunday listener switch off at 11am.” @philtayjones said: “Just shows how out of touch Radio 2 management are. Good move for Michael Ball but replacing him with Paddy McGuinness! Really?”

@fromthesandpit tweeted: “I really dislike Paddy McGuiness so unfortunately I will not be listening on Sundays now. Such a shame. I totally understand they did to find a replacement for the much-missed Steve Wright but I do not get this choice. Paddy is awful.”

With @CushionLady commenting: “Very pleased about one appointment, but will be switching off another I used to listen to.”

Although not all listeners shared the same view as @kattyfox seemed thrilled by the announcement.

They wrote: “I've loved listening to Paddy recently - very happy to read this.”

Currently, Michael already has a show on Radio 2 as people tune in to listen to him on Sunday from 11am-1pm.

Speaking about taking over from Steve’s iconic show, Michael shared his excitement.

He said: “Steve made Love Songs 'appointment to listen' radio. I'm beyond excited and more than 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.”

BBC has shared that the new presenter for Pick of the Pops, which airs on Saturdays, between 1-3pm, will be announced in due course.