Jamie Laing breaks silence over fan backlash as he replaces Jordan North on Radio 1
JAMIE Laing has clapped back at a flurry of fan criticism over his new Radio 1 role.
The former Made In Chelsea star, 35, who has since forged a career as a podcaster, was revealed as Jordan North‘s replacement following the northerner’s shock exit.
Jordan’s unexpected career news was made public on Friday – with The Sun then reporting the I’m A Celeb star’s new job at a rival station.
After Radio 1 told how Jamie would be stepping into his shoes, many fans weren’t happy, with a large chunk suggesting an amateur presenter should have been given a chance instead.
With 24 hours to digest the comments, Jamie has now revealed his sadness at the brutal backlash.
He re-posted a comment to social media which read: “You’re kidding Jamie Laing. Who on this earth would want to listen to his pompous nonsense.
“We need meritocracy brought back in order for ordinary people to stand any chance of being considered.”
Jamie added his view as he wrote: “First comment in and might be a bit too truthful…probably stop there for the day.”
Jamie is no stranger to Radio 1, having stood in on a number of shows previously.
Reacting to his new role earlier in the week, Jamie said: “I’ve loved every minute that I’ve been on air with Radio 1 in recent years, so to be joining Vick on Drivetime is just incredible.
“I’m beyond excited to get started and keep listeners company on their journeys home.”
Earlier today, Jordan, 34, opened up for the first time on his shock station switch.
Addressing his exit on Instagram, Jordan said: “I just wanted to take this opportunity to thank all my wonderful colleagues / talented producers at Radio 1 who many I consider to be friends for life and will miss greatly, you’ve all reached out to me over the past 24 hours and it really has meant a lot.
“To my amazing fellow presenters I wish I could thank you all personally, I’ve loved working with you it’s been an absolute blast! Big love to Katie Thisleton, Greg James, Arielle Free, Ricky, Melvin & Charlie, Dean & Vicky, Clara Amfo, Matt & Molly, Scott Mills, Grimmy, all the rest of you fantastic lot, and of course my partner in crime Vick Hope…I’ll miss being on air with you every day.
“MOST IMPORTANTLY the biggest of thank yous to the fantastic listeners who have been really generous and always made me feel welcome, your kind words & messages have been so lovely, THANK YOU SO MUCH.”
He concluded: “I’ll be back soon, and can’t wait to see you all again.”
This week, fans quickly branded the station “a sinking ship” after Jordan’s departure came to light.