GK Barry's inaugural broadcast on BBC Radio 1 has drawn criticism from listeners who expressed dissatisfaction with the show being pre-recorded, particularly as it replaced the live program hosted by Mollie King and Matt Edmondson.

The social media influencer, whose real name is Grace Eleanor Keeling, has been given a two-hour slot on Thursdays at 1 p.m., taking over the time previously occupied by King and Edmondson.

Barry, 27, has served as a relief presenter for BBC Radio 1 in the past year and hosts the popular podcast "Saving Grace." However, critics have questioned whether her podcast success translates to live radio.

The GK Barry Show is reportedly pre-recorded to prevent on-air profanity and to accommodate Barry's busy schedule.

Following the broadcast, listeners shared their reactions on social media platforms including Instagram and X (formerly Twitter). Common complaints cited the pre-recorded nature of the show, with some expressing a preference for live daytime programming and a desire for King and Edmondson's return.

"Why is she pre-recording it? No show in the daytime should be anything but live," one listener commented. Another stated, "Justice for Matt and Mollie. We want them back on Thursdays."

Some listeners criticized Barry's voice and expressed concern over the reduction of King and Edmondson's airtime. "She has such a droning voice. Poor Matt and Mollie who are great reduced to a three day week to accommodate her," read one post.

Others defended the importance of radio shows in listeners' routines, emphasizing that live broadcasts are a key factor in maintaining audience loyalty. "People like BBC cos they don't have annoying adverts every two minutes," a commenter noted, adding, "Radio 1 is hanging by a thread."

However, a few listeners defended Barry, with one saying, "All these negative comments if you don't like GK turn over, simple. I think she's doing well, her mum's laugh is contagious and Ella did well not to swear." Another offered support, stating, "Love this new addition... love you GKB."

Barry previously expressed enthusiasm for the new role, stating, "I am really excited to be back hosting a series of my own BBC Radio 1 shows from this September. You'll be hearing my favourite songs, we'll be speaking with some really exciting guests and, as always, in true GK Barry style, I promise a lot of humour, chaos and embarrassing stories along the way!"

This change is part of a broader shake-up at BBC Radio 1, which has seen several presenters depart to make way for new talent, including influencers. Among those departing was Nat O'Leary, who bid an emotional farewell after five years on air. Other presenters, including Dean McCullough and Melvin Odoom, were also among those whose shows were axed.

Content creator Charley Marlowe has also joined the station, co-hosting a show with Vicky Hawkesworth. Dean McCullough, who previously hosted the Early Breakfast show, spoke about the challenges of adhering to the BBC's impartiality guidelines during his tenure.

Station boss Aled Haydn Jones reportedly believes that incorporating content creators will increase listenership and engagement.