Jermaine Jenas Axed by BBC Over "Inappropriate Behaviour"

Jermaine Jenas, the former England midfielder and popular BBC presenter, has been sacked by the broadcaster and removed from both *Match of the Day

and *The One Show*. The decision follows allegations of "inappropriate behaviour" levelled against Jenas, prompting an immediate internal investigation.

The BBC confirmed that the probe was launched following concerns regarding "allegations involving digital communications such as texts", received a few weeks ago. The accusations were made by a female member of staff on *The One Show*, who claimed she received unsolicited text messages from Jenas.

The news of Jenas' departure has sent shockwaves through the BBC, particularly in the wake of the recent controversy surrounding presenter Gary Lineker. Jenas was widely considered to be Lineker's natural successor as the anchor for *Match of the Day

and had even been publicly endorsed by the former footballer himself.

The BBC's new Director of Sport, Alex Kay-Jelski, has been actively involved in the investigation and is keen to demonstrate that the organisation is taking a firm stance on such matters. While Jenas' future with the BBC remains uncertain, sources close to the former footballer indicate that he is contesting the decision and seeking legal counsel to clear his name.

Jenas' last appearance on *Match of the Day

was on the 4th of May, while his final *The One Show* appearance was on the 22nd of July. Notably absent from the first episode of the new season of *Match of the Day* on Saturday, Jenas has also parted ways with his long-term agents, MC Saatchi.

Although Jenas has yet to comment publicly on the allegations, he has remained active on social media, most recently posting a picture on Instagram following the end of the Formula E season, which he presented alongside Nicki Shields.

The news of Jenas' dismissal comes as a significant blow to BBC executives, particularly as the broadcaster had been positioning him to take over from Lineker.

The former Tottenham midfielder had publicly expressed his desire for the *Match of the Day

anchor role in a 2021 interview with *The Sun*, stating: "Match Of The Day is the biggest job on television, and if I ever got the opportunity of course I’d say yes. When Gary decides to call it a day, I’m sure the BBC will have a look around and decide who’s the best fit for the job.”

Lineker had echoed this sentiment the following month, telling *The Sun*: "Jermaine is my natural successor, I think he’s doing well.”

This latest controversy marks another tumultuous period for the BBC, following the recent investigation into *Strictly Come Dancing

and the announcement of an independent review into the organisation's workplace culture. The BBC has released a statement acknowledging concerns regarding "inappropriate workplace behaviour" and highlighting the need to maintain "the highest standards."

A BBC spokesperson has confirmed that Jenas is no longer part of their presenting line-up.