In a significant move within British broadcasting, Amol Rajan has announced he is stepping down from his role as a presenter on BBC Radio 4's flagship Today programme. The journalist revealed his decision is driven by a desire to launch his own company focused on the burgeoning creator economy.
Embracing the Digital 'Narnia'
Rajan framed his departure as an opportunity to explore new digital frontiers. He stated his intention to "jump into the great digital Narnia of the creator economy", referencing the transformative impact of platforms like YouTube and TikTok, particularly on younger audiences. He will, however, maintain a strong presence at the BBC.
He confirmed he will continue as the host of the BBC's long-running quiz show University Challenge and will keep producing his Radical podcast for the corporation. Rajan expressed immense pride in his interview series for the BBC, suggesting it will "stand the test of time".
Leaving a 'World Class' Team
Paying tribute to his colleagues, Rajan likened the Today programme team to "the editorial version of Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United, or Steve Waugh’s Australia", praising their consistent world-class output under editors Owenna Griffiths and Mohit Bakaya. Despite this, he cited the fictional wheeler-dealer Del Boy Trotter from Only Fools and Horses as a childhood hero, saying it was time to "unleash my inner entrepreneur".
He was careful to clarify that he is not severing ties with the BBC, which he called "Britain’s noblest cultural institution", but is instead venturing into a new arena.
Another High-Profile Vacancy for the BBC
Rajan's exit creates another prominent vacancy on the agenda-setting radio show, following Mishal Husain's departure at the end of 2024. Husain was replaced by Anna Foster. Finding a suitable successor for Rajan presents a fresh challenge for BBC management, given the intense scrutiny and high profile attached to the role.
His move mirrors a broader trend of established media figures branching into independent digital ventures, similar to Piers Morgan's successful YouTube-based enterprise. Rajan has already engaged with key figures in this space, having interviewed Jordan Schwarzenberger, manager of the massive YouTube group Sidemen, on his podcast.
John McAndrew, the BBC's Director of Live and Daily News, thanked Rajan for his contribution, calling him a "huge talent" who brought a "real breath of fresh air to Today". He confirmed the corporation looks forward to Rajan's continuing work on other BBC programmes as the Today lineup evolves.
