Scott Mills, a prominent BBC DJ, was investigated over allegations of "serious sexual offences" against a teenage boy nearly three decades ago, leading to his abrupt removal from air and subsequent dismissal by the broadcaster. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that the investigation, initiated in December 2016 following a referral from another police force, centered on incidents alleged to have occurred between 1997 and 2000.
Details of the Police Investigation
According to the Metropolitan Police, a man in his 40s at the time was questioned under caution in July 2018 as part of the enquiries. However, the Crown Prosecution Service ultimately determined that the evidential threshold had not been met to bring charges, resulting in the case being closed in May 2019. The investigation was first reported by The Mirror, shedding light on the historical nature of the allegations.
BBC's Response and Internal Communications
The BBC provided minimal details regarding Mills' sacking, stating only that it was due to claims over his personal conduct. In an internal email, Lorna Clarke, the BBC's director of music, expressed that the news would come as a shock to both staff and loyal listeners, acknowledging Mills' long-standing contributions across various BBC programmes, including Radio 1, 5Live, Radio 2, and television. Clarke emphasized the need for discretion, noting that further information on plans for the show would be shared when possible.
Impact on BBC Programming and Recent Controversies
Mills, who last hosted his BBC show on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, and signed off with "See you tomorrow," was taken off air the following week, with Gary Davies stepping in to present Wednesday's show. The 53-year-old DJ had taken over from Zoe Ball on Radio 2's breakfast show in 2025, following an extensive career at the BBC and regional radio, during which he earned between £355,000 and £359,999 annually.
This dismissal marks another controversy for the BBC, coming just a week after the announcement of Matt Brittin as the new director-general set to take office in May. The broadcaster has faced a series of challenges in recent years, with this incident highlighting ongoing scrutiny over personal conduct and historical allegations within the organisation.
Mills has not yet publicly commented on his sacking, leaving questions unanswered as the BBC navigates the fallout and plans for the future of its popular breakfast show.
