TWO fresh faces are set to join BBC Radio 1's Early Breakfast show amidst a significant shake-up at the station.
Richie Driss and SMASHbengali will be taking over the early morning slot from 5am to 6.30am starting in April.
They'll be rotating monthly to give us a taste of fresh presenting talent.
Richie, a 26-year-old from St. Albans, is no stranger to the screen, having spent three years on CBBC's Blue Peter.
He started out in community radio, juggling three shows a week as both presenter and producer.
Later, he made a name for himself with Joe Media's weekly broadcasts, rubbing elbows with Hollywood's finest.
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Excited to get started, Richie said: "When I was told I was going to be on Radio 1 throughout April, I was speechless. Which admittedly isn't great for a radio presenter!
"But it doesn't happen unless something as incredible as presenting on the biggest radio station in the world comes along. I can't wait to get stuck in."
His co-host, SMASHbengali, another rising star, will be stepping into the early morning spotlight in May.
Originally from Birmingham, the host, known by his real name Hashu, gained fame as an online content creator and comedian.
He appeared on our television screens as a finalist on Channel 4's flagship reality TV show The Circle back in 2021.
He is currently the host of BBC Asian Network's Weekend Breakfast show, where he's celebrated for bringing top-notch Asian entertainment, music, and celebrity guests to listeners.
Hashu launched his first YouTube channel in 2017 under the alias SMASHbengali, and ever since, he's been renowned for his lively humour and entertaining content.
He said: "I don't think Radio 1 realise what they've done, get ready to wake up with an absolute nutter on your Friday mornings.
"It's going to be fun, a good cuddle you know? After all, early bird catches the worm.
Who has left Radio 1 over the years?
Jordan North - The I'M A Celeb star left earlier this year (2024) and has been replaced by Jamie Laing.
Adele Roberts - The Dancing On Ice legend left the Beeb in June 2023.
Scott Mills and Chris Stark - The popular duo left Radio 1 in August 2022.
Nick Grimshaw - In August 2021, Nick decided to leave Radio 1 after joining in 2007.
Annie Mac - The DJ left a month before Nick after 17 years.
Dev Griffin - The star decided to pack his bags and move over to Heart FM in December 2020.
MistaJam and Toddla - The two left in September 2020.
Alice Levine - The presenter also quit Radio 1 in August 2020.
Maya Jama - The Love Island host left Radio 1 after two years in May 2020.
Charlie Sloth - The radio star said goodbye to the channel in 2018.
"We all need a solid start that can help us smash the day, lucky for you I go by the name SMASHBengali.
"This is also going to be a quite historic because I'll be the first British Bangladeshi to ever present on Radio 1.
"So personally, kind of a big deal. Expect me to deliver exactly what you need on your early mornings, because it truly means a lot to me."
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The Head of Radio 1, Aled Haydn Jones, said: "This show has been a huge success for Radio 1 over the past few years in showcasing the very best new and emerging talent.
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"So, I'm excited to welcome Richie and SMASHbengali to the station.
"I'm looking forward to hearing what they'll each do with the show."
