BBC presenter slams corporation after quitting post and says ‘nothing changed’

BBC presenter Nihal Arthanayake has accused the corporation of lacking diversity as he complained how ‘not a damn thing has changed’

BBC presenter Nihal Arthanayake hit out at the corporation for the lack of diversity in the workplace in an honest post shared on Instagram. The 54-year-old, who said he is leaving his job in September, said he ‘called out’ BBC North for the lack of Black and Asian staff working for them almost two years ago.

However, he noticed how “not a damn thing changed”. In a clip shared with fans, he said from his car: “Today I walked into the BBC building in Salford and I was struck yet again, not for the first time, just how few Black and Asian people work in that building and one thing people have to understand is when you walk into an environment where you just don’t see anybody that looks like you. That has an effect and since I called them out on it, well over a year and a half ago it seems like ain’t a damn thing changed.”

READ MORE: Apple iOS 26 could convince users to upgrade – this iPhone 16 deal stands out

Nihal accused the BBC of lacking diversity(Image: therealnihal/Instagram)

He captioned the post: “I remember calling out BBC North on the lack of diversity in the building I worked in. I remember speaking to some of the black and asian people who worked there and I kept hearing how isolating it was for them (not all obviously).

“It just struck me again today. It also reminded why I will be leaving in September. Have pondered whether to press ‘share’ on this, but as I am leaving anyway…”

A spokesperson for the BBC said: “We’re sorry if anyone feels this way, as creating an inclusive culture where everyone feels they belong is a big priority for us and we know we have further to go. Whilst we’re proud of the diversity of the BBC, we remain committed to continuing to build a workforce that fully reflects and represents the whole of the UK.”

Article continues below

Last year, the proportions of all employees from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds was at 17.2%, an increase for the BBC. They are also focusing on reaching their goal of 20% Black, Asian and minority ethnic staff by March next year.

Nihal Arthanayake
The star said ‘nothing has changed’(Image: PA)

Meanwhile, fans took to the comment section to share their support for the presenter, with one person writing: “100% agree… seeing is believing.

“If organisations took the time to create environments where everyone felt welcome and could bring their trueselves, you’d wonder what amazing things they could achieve.”

Another said: “Diversity and inclusion isn’t something we should need to fight for. But yet here we are, bored of telling the white man at the top.”

In May 2024, Nihal announced he was quitting his daytime show on BBC Radio 5 Live. He had worked for the BBC since 2002 where he first joined as a BBC Radio 1 co-host on the Asian Beats show. He then became a weekend breakfast show host on the radio channel in 2007 before being moved to a weekend afternoon slot the following year.

Nihal began hosting BBC Radio 1’s Review With Nihal in 2009 – while also hosting shows on the Asian Network from 2007. He left BBC Radio 1 in 2014 and began carving out a successful career on the airwaves from 2016 by helming discussion shows and panels.

The star then joined 5 Live in 2016 and helmed the afternoon slot on the show that hit the air from 1pm until 4pm from Monday to Thursday.

Follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads.

Article continues below

READ MORE: ‘It fixed my very dry skin overnight!’ Big tub of Weleda body butter hits £10 sale for 24 hours

Rylan Clark opens up on Rob Rinder relationship saying ‘might as well put a ring on it’

Rylan Clark has remarked that he and Rob Rinder might as well ‘put a ring on it’ after the X Factor star declared that they are like a married couple in a new interview

Rylan said he and Rob Rinder were already like a ‘married couple’(Image: Carlo Paloni, BAFTA via Getty Images)

Rylan Clark has quipped he “might as well put a ring on it” with TV partner Rob Rinder after likening their dynamic to a married couple’s relationship.

He made the comments during a chat with Reverend Richard Coles on his BBC show Rylan: How To Be In Love, where former I’m a Celebrity contestant Richard joked, “You’ve got Rob Rinder all over you like a rash.”

Rylan agreed with the statement and then replied: “We are like a married couple, we row all the time and don’t have sex like a proper married couple. We might as well put a ring on it.”

While fans have speculated about the nature of Rylan and Rob’s connection following their closeness on the BBC Grand Tour series, Rylan confirmed that their bond is strictly non-romantic.

Richard Coles
Richard Coles appeared on Rylan’s podcast(Image: David Levenson, Getty Images)

In his podcast series, the Radio 2 presenter has been candid about his journey of seeking new love post-divorce, sharing his apprehensions with Richard: “I want to find the next love of my life. I’ve been married, I thought I’d found the love of my life, I hadn’t.”

Article continues below

He also shared the emotional toll of ending his marriage to Dan Neal, saying: “As much as my ex didn’t pass away, I still went through that grief in my own way. For a long time I thought, ‘I’m going to be single forever, like, how can I meet someone now?'”.

Earlier in the podcast Rylan quizzed Richard about his experiences with dating after his late husband, David Coles, died in December 2019.

Richard, speaking in an interview with The Guardian after David’s passing, previously reflected on the struggles his late partner faced, saying: “One of the problems David had was that the public life I led meant that people felt they had a sort of claim on me, and in ways that cut across his claim as my significant other.”

The moment became profound when Richard remembered the intrusion David went through, revealing: “Literally, sometimes people would push him out of the way. He was very good about it. He made a joke about it. But I think it must have been very irritating for him.”

Richard’s experience mirrors that of Rylan, who shared with Stephen Fry his dilemma regarding dating while in the limelight: “One thing I’m finding really difficult when it comes down to dating is that people think I’m Rylan when, in honesty, I’m Ross.”

Opening up further, Ross, better known by his stage name Rylan, confessed: “I need to work out, ‘Do you want to date Rylan and what Rylan can give you, or do you want to date the real me?'”.

Rylan Clark
Rylan discusses love and relationships on his popular BBC podcast(Image: Kate Green/BAFTA, Getty Images for BAFTA)

Understanding the sentiment behind Rylan’s words, Stephen expressed empathy, despite not sharing the same predicament, attributing it to his husband Elliott’s indifference to celebrity gatherings, noting: “I do know what you mean exactly, because I don’t, at home, quote poems and literature and use long words.

Article continues below

“One thing I think is good and it’s not to diss other types, but as it happens, Elliott is not interested in red carpets and glamorous openings and things like that.

Amanda Holden reveals five-word criticism from daughter that makes her rethink outfits

Amanda Holden says there is one thing that her daughter Lexi can say about her outfit that will make her go and change immediately

Amanda Holden often makes bold style choices(Image: Instagram/Amanda Holden)

Amanda Holden has disclosed that a sharp five-word critique from her daughter about her style is all it takes to make her reconsider her wardrobe choice.

Known for her bold outfit choices on Britain’s Got Talent, Amanda’s most controversial outfit reportedly drew over 600 viewer complaints to regulatory body Ofcom, reports Devon Live.

The 54-year-old says there is a team of people who examine what she wears before she steps on stage. Amanda, however, insists the TV talent show is the “perfect opportunity to take risks”.

Despite this, she says there are moments of indecision, confessing that after her stylist presents “rails and rails” of potential outfits, she frequently chooses one, only to switch moments later.

Amanda Holden with daughters Lexi (L) and Hollie
Amanda confessed that one criticism from daughter Lexi (left) soon makes her rethink an outfit(Image: INSTAGRAM/Amanda Holden)

Amanda, who shares her home with her husband Chris Hughes and daughters Lexi, 19, and Hollie, 12, acknowledges that their opinions matter to her. Revealing to the Sun’s TV magazine, she said: “My daughters normally love my outfits, but Lexi is quite critical, like her daddy.”

Article continues below

She shares a common exchange with them: “I’m like, ‘Do you like this?’ And she’ll say: ‘No!’ But it doesn’t change my mind if somebody doesn’t like my outfit – if I think it’s great, I’ll wear it.”

Amanda admits there’s one type of feedback from her eldest that will prompt an immediate costume change: “Though if Lexi says: ‘It makes you look old’ then I listen to that.”

Amanda and her co-judge, Alesha Dixon, faced a furore over their choice of attire at the Britain’s Got Talent final last week, with Ofcom receiving 72 gripes for outfits deemed “too revealing for a family show”.

Back in July 2017, Amanda turned heads and sparked debate when she donned a daring Julien Macdonald number, which later became the year’s most controversial TV topic.

The mother of two wryly dubbed it a ‘national crisis’ at the time.

Amanda Holden
Some of Amanda Holden’s ensembles have led to Ofcom complaints(Image: ITV)

Chatting with Closer magazine, Amanda quipped: “I’m always asked about the Ofcom complaints, but every outfit on the show is checked before I leave my dressing room, so I’m never worried. I think people should have fun with fashion!”

Not stopping there, she explained: “I had bits of fish wire underneath my breasts trying to hold that together… It’s all quite laughable, but all everyone seems to talk about. It’s been called another national crisis – but oh no, I will not be covered up.”

Amanda is unapologetic about her desire to “always look good”, asserting: “There’s no way I’d step out in my pyjamas or rock up without a lash. To preserve my own sense of dignity, I always try to look good.”

Article continues below

Chris Robinson dead: General Hospital and WWII series star dies aged 86

Chris Robinson has died at the age of 86. The star of General Hospital and WWII series 12 O’Clock High died in his sleep, a friend confirmed in a sad update on social media.

Just For A Week co-star and friend MJ Allen wrote on Facebook : “Prolific Hollywood actor Chris Robinson has passed away at the age of 86. He peacefully passed in his sleep at his ranch near Sedona, Arizona at 12:30am on June 9, 2025. He had been in heart failure for some time, and is his official cause of death.

“His more than 100 roles in television and feature film span from 1957-2022. Most notably, his longtime role as “Dr. Rick Webber” on the ABC daytime drama General Hospital made him a worldwide television star. While on the show, Chris launched the careers of John Stamos, Rick Springfield, and Richard Dean Anderson.”






General Hospital star Chris Robinson has died
(
WireImage)

Chris was known for his roles in huge shows like General Hospital, where he played Dr. Rick Webber for 11 years. He made his return to the show back in 2002 but his character was killed after being bludgeoned to death by a candlestick.

He also starred as Jack Hamilton in The Bold and the Beautiful from 1992-2002 and made a final appearance three years later. His role in General Hospital kept him in the spotlight in the infamous Vicks Formula 44 cough syrup advert.

“I’m not a doctor, but I do play one on TV,” he said in the ad. He was eventually replaced by Peter Bergman, an actor who played a doctor on All My Children after Chris faced some legal headaches with income tax evasion. He pleaded guilty to federal income tax evasion in 1985 but was allowed to serve his sentence on nights and weekends and thus continued in his acting role.






Chris in General Hospital


Chris in General Hospital
(
Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images)

His son, also called Chris, said he was “conceived in [his dad’s] dressing room in General Hospital” and also claimed that his father had “practically had as many relationships in his real life as he’s had in the movies”.

In his documentary, B*****d: An Illegitimate Film, Chris said of his siblings and half siblings: “No matter how we came to be, all of us are connected. And when our father is gone, even as some of us don’t even consider him to be their father, we’ll still have each other to look to for love and support. It might not be normal, but it’s certainly a hell of a lot more interesting.”

Chris had nine children with six different women including Shane, Coby, Christian, Christopher, Chris and Taylor, and grandchildren Ivy, Ava, Davey, Brooks and Knox, who all survive the star.

Like this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs onTikTok,Snapchat,Instagram,Twitter,Facebook,YouTubeandThreads.

Stacey Solomon’s new ‘Sunshine Sprtiz’ shimmer mist drops in time for festival season

Stacey Solomon’s beauty brand Rehab has just released their new ‘Summer Spritz’ line, which includes a body and hair shimmer spray that will be perfect for festival season

Stacey Solomon’s new ‘Sunshine Sprtiz’ shimmer mist drops in time for festivals(Image: Getty)

Touted as “Ibiza bottled for your hair & body”, this new shimmer spray is set to be your go-to for the sunny season. Boasting one-part shimmer and one-part perfume, so you can look and smell like summer, this dreamy mist is set to bestow a beautiful, golden veil for your hair and body that captures the magic of a golden hour glow.

This summer must-have is available from Rehab directly, or Selfridges (£26) or Boots (£26), depending on where you prefer to shop. That said, the Summer Spritz body and hair mist is currently on sale for £19.20 from Rehab.

READ MORE: Save £250 on a giant Tuscan olive tree that will transform any patio into a Mediterranean haven

READ MORE: Helen Flanagan stuns in figure-hugging maxi that’s perfect for holiday nights out

REHAB Sunshine Spritz Hair & Body Shimmer Mist
Stacey’s brand Rehab just launched its new hair and body shimmer mist(Image: REHAB)

This mist provides a delicate hypnotic shimmer and features an advanced formula that incorporates suspended pearl technology for an even spritz. It’s also enriched with hyaluronic acid for an extra hit of hydration and UV ray absorbers to help protect hair against UV damage while neutralising free radicals—so it’s skincare and shimmer all in one.

The shimmer mist is scented with the delicious Sunshine Spritz fragrance, which boasts tropical notes of magnolia, coconut, sandalwood, and sea salt. It instantly transports you to sun-soaked shores wherever you wear it.

Infused with a soft, golden shimmer that catches the light for a luminous glow, this shimmer mist enhances any look of sun-kissed skin and glossy hair, leaving behind a radiant, head-turning finish that embodies the summer essence with its shine and scent.

Designed to be sprayed on hair and skin, this shimmer mist will be perfect for parties on the beach or your next summer festival as it adds that eye-catching glittery glow without a long application process. Simply spritz and go.

Article continues below

Normally retailing for £26 at Selfridges or Boots, or for £24 directly from Rehab, this new release is currently up for grabs for nearly £5 less if you shop from Rehab’s own store.

Clarkson’s Farm star sells £2.8m Cotswolds home paid for with secret fortune

The Amazon Prime series Clarkson’s Farm has become a huge hit with viewers and now two of the stars are looking to sell their properties as they aim to boost their bank balances

Jeremy Clarkson’s childhood home on sale for £1.5m with link to iconic bear(Image: Lister Haigh / SWNS)

Two stars from the Amazon Prime series Clarkson’s Farm are looking to boost their bank balances as they list their properties on the market for some eye-watering figures – with one of the lavish houses having a link to a very iconic British institution.

Former Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson’s childhood home, Rowland Bridge House, is on the market for a whopping £1.5 million, while one of his co-stars is looking to sell their £2.8 million Cotswolds country home in a raffle!

Located in the historic market town of Tickhill, Doncaster, South Yorkshire, Clarkson’s childhood home is a Grade II listed property that boasts five bedrooms, three bathrooms, four reception rooms, and a ‘large living kitchen’.

The Clarkson family moved into this 17th-century detached house back in 1987. Jeremy lived there with his mother Shirley, who famously crafted the world’s first ‘plush’ Paddington Bear, initially without authorisation from the character’s creator, Michael Bond.

Shirley Clarkson and family officially launch Bearly Believable in Oakham.  Jeremy in the background
Shirley Clarkson and family officially launch Bearly Believable in Oakham in 2010

Clarkson’s mother hadn’t asked for permission to use the bear’s likeness, but all worked out for her after Bond bumped into Shirley and her husband Eddie and struck up a friendship with the couple and officially awarded her company the licence.

Article continues below

The author recalled to The Sunday Times in 2014: “I got in the lift with Shirley and Eddie. They were terribly nice and pretended it had all been a mistake – and we were friends by the time we got out of the lift. I gave them a licence.”

Bond’s approval helped Shirley set up a fortune for the Clarkson family, with her Paddington venture allowing the income she generated through Paddington Bear to fund her son’s private school education which helped launch his career in showbuisnsess.

Shjirley with the bear
Paddington helped secure Clarkson’s millions(Image: Getty Images)

She once told AutoTrader magazine: “I’ve got a Paddington bear on the dashboard of my car. I looked at it recently and thought if it hadn’t been for the success of the toys, Jeremy wouldn’t have had all the chances he’s had in life.”

Just a stone’s throw away from Hill House School, where Clarkson spent his school years, the property offers waterside views over a large duck pond, This two-storey property, complete with a walled south-facing garden and orangery, is now up for grabs with a guide price of £1,475,000.

The 5,000 square-foot home, which is just a two-hour journey from London by public transport, comes fully equipped with a range of Miele appliances, including an Aga cooker, and features a laundry and utilities room.

Rowland Bridge House, the childhood home of TV star, Jeremy Clarkson, in Tickhill, South Yorkshire.  Release date – June 11, 2025.
The Clarkson family home is now up for sale (Image: Lister Haigh / SWNS)

Additional perks include a security system, integrated multimedia system, smart heating, and an outdoor kitchen. The main bedroom boasts an en-suite bathroom with a freestanding roll-top bath, and a dressing room. Other features include a conservatory, and a detached garage block with a workshop, gardener’s toilet, and a self-contained office and gym.

Nick Talbot from Lister Haigh highlighted the captivating past of Rowland Bridge House: “Rowland Bridge House is full of history and during the 1970s it was the childhood home of motoring journalist and star of Clarkson’s Farm, Jeremy Clarkson.” Nick then added: “It’s also where he famously played with the world’s first ever Paddington Bear, after his mother, Shirley Clarkson, started making the soft toys without consent. However, she was later granted licencing rights by Paddington’s author, Michael Bond, to manufacture and export the bears throughout the world.”

Commenting on the features of the home, Nick was enthusiastic: “It’s a magnificent family home in the highly sought after, historic and picturesque market town of Tickhill which is very popular due to its excellent range of independent shops, restaurants, and amenities, as well as offering easy access to the A1(M), M18 and M62.”

pool table
Potential buyers can enjoy a spot of pool(Image: Lister Haigh / SWNS)

He also mentioned the appealing mix of old-world allure and contemporary comforts found in the home: “The property blends period features and charm with an excellent finish, which includes media and sound systems together with remote heating and security systems, which will all appeal to buyers looking for a standout family home.”

It’s noted that the Clarksons sold the greatly-loved house back in 2016, and it’s now believed to be owned by a semi-retired estate agent.

Rachel Hawkins, who assisted Clarkson in launching his Cotswolds pub The Farmer’s Dog, resides nearby the presenter’s site and is now raffling off her £2.8 million country home.

Rowland Bridge House, the childhood home of TV star, Jeremy Clarkson, in Tickhill, South Yorkshire.  Release date – June 11, 2025
It sits in beautiful walled gardens with a detached garage block that has living space above it, which could be used as guest accommodation, an office suite or home gym(Image: Lister Haigh / SWNS)

The hospitality entrepreneur, known for reviving dilapidated pubs, has put her six-bedroom house located in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold up for grabs with tickets starting at just £10.

Rachel, along with her long-term partner Will Kennedy, moved into the property in November 2015 after purchasing it for £750,000. The 40-year-old star has decided to relocate with Will and their five dogs, opting for an unconventional method to sell their home.

The detached 4,000sq ft property is perfect for hosting, should any of the increasing number of Cotswolds A-listers decide to drop by, boasting a unique bar area.

It also features a living area and a kitchen with dining space, flanked by a separate dining room on one side and a stylish family room on the other. The family room comes with bi-fold doors that open onto a stone terrace, complete with a garden room for sunny days.

The ground floor also houses a cosy sitting room, study and cellar, as well as visitor-friendly features such as a boot room for wellies and a custom-made dog bed.

The two upper floors of the Cotswold stone house accommodate six bedrooms, each with its own en suite. A spacious master suite, several guest rooms and a quirky loft room with two single beds tucked under the eaves of the house make it an ideal home for those who love to host.

Article continues below

The plush residence comes fully furnished with chic furniture, and Raffle House also takes care of the stamp duty costs and fees, ensuring the lucky winner can move in without any additional expenses.