Rylan Clark has emerged as the bookies’ early favourite to take over from Jermaine Jenas on BBC’s The One Show. On Thursday (August 22), it was announced that Jermaine, 41, had been let go by the BBC following complaints about his conduct in the workplace. Reports later surfaced that a female staff member had received “unsolicited texts” while working on The One Show.
Jermaine, who is regularly seen hosting the popular evening show and providing punditry on Match of the Day, expressed his dismay, stating he was “not happy about it” as the decision came unexpectedly. However, with his spot now vacant on The One Show, bookmakers are suggesting that presenter and former X Factor contestant Rylan could be his successor.
Rylan, already well-known to audiences for his presenting stints on ITV’s This Morning among other TV programmes, is currently leading the odds at 9/2 for a permanent position on The One Show, according to betideas.com. Other prominent figures in the running include Welsh TV host Gethin Jones, priced at 7/2, and Olympic diver Tom Daley, who stands at 8/1, reports the Mirror.
Lee Astley, spokesperson for betideas.com, commented: “The news of Jermaine Jenas’ sacking from The One Show on BBC has kickstarted the rumour mill on who will replace him as a permanent host, with Rylan Clark a solid chance in the betting.”
After the announcement of his exit, Jermaine spoke to a talkSport reporter on Thursday evening. He stated: “I can’t really talk about it. As you can probably see, I’m not happy about it. But currently as it stands I’m going to have to let the lawyers deal with it. There’s two sides… that’s all I can say now.” He further added: “I’m not happy about this situation. I’m going to be speaking to my lawyers about it, is all I can say right now.”
The emergence of Rylan Clark as the frontrunner to step into Jermaine Jenas’ shoes has sparked speculation and excitement among viewers. With the odds in his favour, all eyes are on the BBC to see who will be announced as the new co-host of The One Show.