Jermaine Jenas, a former soccer player, expresses his discontent with being dismissed from the BBC due to allegations of inappropriate conduct, as confirmed by the broadcaster.
The BBC informed that Jenas is no longer part of The One Show’s presenter roster.
The announcement of Jenas’s firing coincided with his commencement of a three-hour drive-time program on talkSPORT radio alongside Jermaine Pennant, another former footballer.
The 41-year-old has also been relieved of his punditry and hosting duties on the BBC’s prominent football highlights show, Match Of The Day, along with Match Of The Day 2 and Radio 5 Live.
Jermaine Jenas playing for QPR in 2014. Pic: Rex Features
BBC News disclosed that his contract was terminated earlier this week due to alleged workplace behavior issues.
According to the report, the termination followed allegations concerning digital communications, including texts, that were raised with the organization a few weeks ago.
During an interview with a talkSPORT reporter on Thursday evening, Jenas mentioned: “I’m unable to delve into specifics. It’s evident that I’m dissatisfied with this situation. At the moment, I will have to leave the matter to the lawyers to handle.”
“There are two perspectives… that’s all I can disclose presently.”
He further stated, “I’m displeased with this circumstance. Presently, my recourse is discussing matters with my legal representatives.”
Jenas expressed his inability to discuss most of the topics questioned by the radio station but concurred with the interviewer’s observation that he seemed enraged.
The former player also chose not to reveal whether legal action has been initiated.
Jenas presenting for TNT Sports in February. Pic: PA
In an internal email obtained by Sky News, the BBC stated: “I am informing you that Jermaine Jenas is no longer affiliated with the BBC.”
A spokesperson for talkSPORT disclosed that the station was informed about a developing news story involving Jermaine Jenas as he commenced a one-time hosting spot on talkSPORT Drive.
A released statement mentioned: “We, together with Jermaine, decided that he should continue hosting the show.
“Given the range of serious accusations being publicized as the narrative progresses, it is up to Jermaine, as a private individual, to address them as he sees fit.
“There are no immediate plans for Jermaine to appear as a presenter on talkSPORT.”
Jenas last featured on The One Show in mid-July, and his last appearance on Match Of The Day was back in May.
More:
Strictly dancer kicked partner during rehearsal
BBC asks Huw Edwards to return £200k of salary
Jenas, who earned £190,000 to £194,999 at the BBC for his work in the FA Cup, Match Of The Day, and the World Cup in 2022/23, also has an engagement with TNT Sports.
Details regarding his salary for hosting The One Show have not been disclosed as the show is produced by BBC Studios, the BBC’s commercial production arm.
Jenas made his professional football debut at 17 for Nottingham Forest and subsequently played for Newcastle United, Tottenham, Aston Villa, and Queens Park Rangers during his career.
Jenas also represented England 21 times, scoring one goal.
Jermaine Jenas playing for Newcastle United in 2002. Pic: PA
Stay updated on the latest news from the UK and across the globe by following Sky News
Post-retirement from professional football in 2016, the midfielder transitioned to punditry and hosting roles with the BBC and BT Sport.
A father of four, Jenas joined The One Show in 2020 as a temporary co-host after Matt Baker’s exit and later became a permanent fixture on the show.
His agency, MC Saatchi, also announced the termination of their representation following his dismissal.
TNT Sports refrained from commenting on Jenas’s association with the BBC, indicating he is not scheduled to appear on the platform’s channels for several weeks.
Jenas provided commentary for the Ipswich versus Liverpool match on TNT last Saturday as the Premier League resumed.
Reports suggest that TNT Sports was unaware of Jenas’s status with the BBC.
talkSPORT did not respond immediately to Sky’s request for a comment.
