radio 1 schedule changes news following Vick Hope's maternity leave

Sophie Habboo and GK Barry to bring fresh energy to BBC Radio 1

Sophie Habboo is set to join her husband Jamie Laing as co-host on BBC Radio 1’s Going Home show (Monday – Thursday, 3.30pm – 6pm), stepping in from Monday to Wednesday each week between 2 June and 18 June while Vick Hope is on maternity leave.

The couple will make history as the first-ever married pair to present a show together on Radio 1. Jamie, who normally hosts alongside Vick Hope and Katie Thistleton (also on maternity leave), will team up with Sophie for this special run. Sophie’s trademark quick wit and vibrant energy—familiar to fans of the hit NewlyWeds podcast she co-hosts with Jamie—will bring a lively dynamic to the show. The duo have already impressed on major stages, including their hosting role on the red carpet at The BRIT Awards 2025, where they interviewed stars like Jared Leto and Myles Smith.

Sophie Habboo says: “I’m thrilled to finally announce that I’ll be joining the Radio 1 family for the next few weeks! I’ve always loved how radio connects people across the nation in real time, and I’m honoured to be stepping in for Vick while she starts her exciting new chapter of life.

“Anyone who knows me knows I’m no stranger to talking to a mic for hours, so I’m excited to connect with new people, dive into some great conversations and hopefully share a few laughs along the way. I’ll also be making a bit of Radio 1 history presenting alongside my husband Jamie Laing, which feels really special (and probably a bit chaotic in the best way). Catch you on-air!”

Meanwhile, social media sensation and podcaster GK Barry (Grace Keeling) is set to take over Radio 1’s weekend afternoon show (Friday – Sunday, 1pm – 4pm) throughout July, starting Friday 4 July. Known for her unfiltered humour and candid storytelling, Grace will bring her signature energy and honesty to the airwaves, accompanied by a rotating lineup of special guests. Grace’s loyal following stems from her wildly successful Saving Grace podcast and her standout performance on the latest series of I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! Expect plenty of surprises and a burst of weekend fun as Grace makes the show her own.

GK Barry says: “I am so excited to be presenting my own show with BBC Radio 1 across July, I thank the whole team for trusting me with such an incredible audience and I’m ready to bring you all into my world and music a few hours a week.”

Following Sophie’s run, from Monday 23 June, Sam and Danni will join Jamie on Going Home. The trio, already firm favourites with Radio 1 listeners, will keep the nation entertained with a mix of the best in music, guests and plenty of chaos.

Sam and Danni say: “Well…you know we love a challenge! We’re so excited to be joining Jamie for some laughs and chaos this summer. We’ll be keeping you company and soundtracking whatever you’re up to across the holidays. It’s a dream come true to be looking after one of the best radio shows across the UK, let’s get you home!”

Aled Haydn Jones, Head of Radio 1, says: “I’m delighted to welcome Sophie to Radio 1, having her join Jamie on Going Home will bring an exciting dynamic to the show and marks a first for the station, as our first-ever married couple to co-host together. I’m also looking forward to Sam and Danni teaming up with Jamie, and can’t wait to see what GK Barry and friends bring to weekends. It’s shaping up to be a brilliant summer on Radio 1.”


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