Rylan Clark Hailed 'Saviour' by BBC Colleagues After Salary Remarks
Radio 2 presenter's comments on BBC pay and flight cancellations draw support from within the corporation.
Rylan Clark has been lauded as a "saviour" by his BBC colleagues for publicly addressing issues with Radio 2 management regarding his salary and a missed show. The presenter's candid remarks have resonated with staff who feel he is unafraid to speak out on their behalf.
The 37-year-old host recounted an incident in June where he was unable to present his Saturday afternoon show on Radio 2 due to a cancelled flight from France amidst an air traffic control strike. Despite veteran DJ Mark Goodier stepping in, Clark stated that BBC bosses "had a right go" at him. He later expressed his frustration on Alan Carr's podcast, questioning the reaction given his salary, and remarking, "P*** off, for the money they pay me. Thank you, licence payers."
Sources within the BBC have expressed full support for Clark's statements, describing him as someone who "stick[s] up for people" and is "seen as a real saviour among employees."
While Clark's specific Radio 2 earnings are private, his overall income through his performing arts company, Rylan Limited, reportedly reached £1.4 million from his roles on "This Morning" and "Strictly's It Takes Two." Clark joined Radio 2 in 2018, taking over Zoe Ball's 3pm to 6pm slot.
Clark's outspokenness may also be linked to his close friendship with former Breakfast Show host Scott Mills, who was dismissed by the BBC in April following historical allegations of sexual assault. For the first time since taking over his Radio 2 role in 2018, Clark hosted the Eurovision Song Contest without Mills, who was replaced by Sara Cox. Sources noted that Clark appeared less engaged during this year's Eurovision coverage, attributing it to the handling of Mills's situation.
In May, Clark had discussed the impact of "cancel culture" on celebrity friends, expressing the difficulty of seeing close associates face public backlash. He advised against always believing reports and encouraged questioning decisions.
Clark was also reportedly considered as a replacement for "Strictly Come Dancing" hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, but the role ultimately went to Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe, and Josh Widdicombe.
The BBC has been contacted for comment.