Joel Dommett Reportedly Declines Radio 2 Drivetime Slot Amid 'Toxic Environment' Rumors

Radio 2 is reportedly facing fresh turmoil as bosses struggle to fill the Drivetime slot after comedian Joel Dommett declined the coveted position, fueling rumors of a "toxic environment" within the station. The BBC chiefs had offered the role to Dommett, known for hosting ITV's The Masked Singer, following Sara Cox's reassignment to the Breakfast Show. Cox took over the morning slot after the dismissal of Scott Mills due to historic sex assault claims, for which he was not charged.

A source suggested that while the Drivetime position would have been a significant opportunity for Dommett, he likely became aware of the reported dissatisfaction and unease among staff. "It's caused a nightmare as everyone had hopes pinned on him," the source stated. Radio 2 was reportedly surprised that the 41-year-old comedian, who also appeared on I'm A Celebrity, did not eagerly accept the offer.

The Drivetime slot, with a reported salary of £200,000, represents a substantial opportunity. Dommett, who has two sons with model Hannah Cooper, has hosted The Masked Singer since 2020. Since Cox moved to the Breakfast Show in July, the weekday 4pm to 7pm Drivetime slot has been covered by guest presenters, including Dommett.

The station has experienced significant shifts, particularly since Cox, who hosted Drivetime for seven years, replaced Mills on the Breakfast Show. Insiders allege that the actions of Radio 2 head Helen Thomas have contributed to the station becoming a less desirable workplace. Thomas, in her six-year tenure, was among the executives involved in Mills's dismissal, an event that reportedly caused considerable consternation among colleagues. According to a source, staff who were once loyal to Thomas are now "on edge" as her influence appears to be waning.

Radio 2 has seen several high-profile personalities depart for rival stations in recent years. Chris Evans left the Breakfast Show for Virgin Radio in 2018 after 13 years. Simon Mayo resigned from Drivetime shortly after and subsequently joined Greatest Hits Radio. Graham Norton departed his Saturday morning show in 2020 after a decade to move to Virgin. Ken Bruce left after 30 years in 2023, bringing his quiz show PopMaster to Greatest Hits Radio. Claudia Winkleman also departed five years after replacing Norton.

Zoe Ball left the station last year, with reports indicating she did not feel adequately supported by the BBC, particularly following her mother's death in April 2024.

A BBC spokesperson stated that the broadcaster does not recognize the portrayal of the working environment at Radio 2. "The station prides itself on being a supportive family, on and off air, and that culture comes from the top," the spokesperson said. "We don’t comment on speculation around individual contracts."