Former Tottenham and Newcastle midfielder Jermaine Jenas has found himself at the centre of a media storm after the BBC confirmed his departure from The One Show’s presenting line-up. The 41-year-old, who has been a familiar face on British television since he joined the show in 2020, has also been dropped from his punditry roles on Match of the Day, Match of the Day 2, and Radio 5 Live, amid allegations of inappropriate workplace behaviour.
The news broke as Jenas was preparing to present a three-hour drive-time programme on talkSPORT radio alongside fellow former footballer Jermaine Pennant. Despite the timing, talkSPORT made a joint decision with Jenas to allow him to continue with the broadcast. However, the station has since stated that there are no immediate plans for him to return as a presenter.
Jenas, who reportedly earned between £190,000 and £194,999 for his work on BBC’s football coverage, last appeared on The One Show in mid-July and on Match of the Day in May. His salary for The One Show remains undisclosed due to its production by BBC Studios, a commercial arm of the BBC.
The allegations have not only affected his television career but also his representation, with his agency MC Saatchi announcing that they no longer represent him. Although Jenas continues to work for TNT Sports, where he recently co-commentated on the Ipswich v Liverpool match as the Premier League kicked off, it’s understood that his schedule on the platform is currently on hold.
Jenas, who transitioned into punditry and presenting after retiring from professional football in 2016, has been a popular figure in British sports media. His football career, which began at Nottingham Forest at the age of 17, saw him play for notable clubs such as Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa, and Queens Park Rangers. He also earned 21 caps for England, scoring one goal.
The BBC, in an internal email seen by Sky News, simply stated, “Jermaine Jenas is no longer working for the BBC.” This abrupt announcement has left many in the industry speculating about the future of his career, as the situation continues to unfold. Meanwhile, TNT Sports has refrained from commenting on Jenas’s status, only noting that he is not scheduled for any upcoming broadcasts.
For now, Jenas remains in the public eye, albeit under less than ideal circumstances, as he faces the challenge of addressing the serious allegations against him. His future in broadcasting, particularly with the BBC, seems uncertain as both his career and reputation hang in the balance.
For more updates and official statements regarding Jermaine Jenas, visit BBC News.
