Clara Amfo is new host of BBC Radio 1’s Live Lounge

BBC Radio 1 today announced that Clara Amfo will join the daytime roster of DJs on Radio 1, becoming the new host of Radio 1’s Live Lounge, presenting the weekday 10am – 1pm show on the network from Monday 25 May. It was also announced that Fearne Cotton, who joined Radio 1 in 2005, will be leaving the station.

Clara Amfo brings a fresh voice combined with natural energy, enthusiasm and knowledge of music to the morning show which frequently hosts sessions from the biggest musicians in the world.

Clara is the second solo female host of The Official Chart and has presented the iconic Radio 1 show since 25th January 2015. The rising star will continue to host The Official Chart but will step down from hosting the Weekend Breakfast Show (6-10am) on 1Xtra on Sunday 17 May. Clara will take over from the current Live Lounge host, Fearne Cotton, who announced today that she is to step down from Radio 1.

Ben Cooper, Controller, BBC Radio 1 and 1Xtra said: “Fearne has been an amazing ambassador for new music and Radio 1, and we want to wish her and her family all the very best for the future. I’m also so excited for Clara, as she represents the next generation of Radio 1 DJs bringing the best new music to young audiences in the UK.”

Clara Amfo said: “I am honoured and thrilled to be presenting such a huge show on Radio 1. The broadcasters who have gone before me have left an impressive trail and I hope to carry that on.  Doing this job is an absolute joy and to now have the opportunity to broadcast Monday to Friday is something that I am so grateful for. I can’t wait to introduce a Live Lounge artist for the first time!”

Fearne said:” Jesse and I are very happy to announce we are having another baby. I feel extremely blessed and happy that Rex will be a big brother, and we get to welcome another Wood into the world. It has also been a time of big decisions and one I want to share with you now. After much time and careful thought I have decided to leave Radio 1 after ten amazing years. I have had the most incredible decade broadcasting on Radio 1, meeting wonderful people, helping break artists and watching live music from the world’s best. However it is now time for a new chapter. I would like to thank Radio 1 for being such a great home and most of all to the listeners who have been on this journey with me. It’s such a kick to know you heard a band on my show first, or that the songs I’ve played have helped you through the day, so thank you. I will leave with the best memories and many great friends. Here’s to family and new adventures.”

Fearne will present her last show on Friday 22 May – with Radio 1’s Big Weekend being her last Radio 1 event.

1Xtra presenter, Ace, will be taking over 1Xtra’s Weekend Breakfast Show following Clara’s move.

Ace said, “So excited to be back on the schedule! Can’t wait to get stuck in. I guarantee your weekend lie-in will never be the same again!”