BBC Radio 2 fans react to Paddy McGuinness debut after controversial scheduling shake-up

Paddy McGuinness admitted he was feeling “insecure” as he made his debut live on BBC Radio 2 this morning. The Top Gear presenter has taken over Michael Ball’s old slot on Sundays from 11am-1pm.

It comes after it was announced that Michael would be taking over the slot of his late BBC colleague Steve Wright, who tragically died aged 69 back in February. Today, Michael debuted his show Love Songs with Michael Ball in Sunday’s 9-11am slot, which formerly belonged to Steve.

Taking to the mic today, Paddy admitted he was feeling nervous and had downed “six coffees” ahead of his first show. Just minutes in, fans took to X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, to share their thoughts on his debut.

Most people agreed Paddy was smashing it, with one fan enthusiastically writing: “Never been one for radio 2 but can’t help it now @PaddyMcGuinness has a show on there!! So I’ve finally given in whilst hanging out the holiday clothes washing.” (sic)

Another penned: “@PaddyMcGuinness @BBCRadio2 Cracking it! Beautiful day in the garden with hubby and dog, with heightened anticipation of Ang's quiz!” (sic)

“@PaddyMcGuinness You’re doing great Paddy @BBCRadio2,” a third commented.

While one more complimented Paddy’s music choices, tweeting: “@PaddyMcGuinness Ghost In My House - R Dean Taylor.... What a tune....” (sic)

Not everyone was a fan, with one person complaining: “@BBCRadio2 now we have 2, 2 hours slots that are utter rubbish. #PaddyMcGuinness and #ScottMills Ruining my listening. You put guys in to fill that are miles better. Sort it out.” (sic)

Another wrote: “@BBCRadio2 ahh just had to switch off on a Sunday morning for first time. Thanks for unleashing that twonk @PaddyMcGuinness on us! No thanks.” (sic)

However, the reception seemed generally positive, with other fans also praising Michael as he stepped into his new role.

“Well, isn't @mrmichaelball the absolute perfect choice? Just brilliant #LoveSongs #BBCRadio2 @BBCRadio2,” one fan gushed with a heart emoji. (sic)

While another penned: “Taking the chair nicely for the first time hosting Sunday Love Songs.” (sic)

One more commented: “Loved Michael Ball's new show on @BBCRadio2! Love songs has always been one of my fav shows of the week and it's just not seemed right since Steve passed away! Loved the live aspect and calls too!” (sic)

Following the BBC Press Office’s announcement on X about the recent new appointments at Radio 2, there was some backlash from fans, while others appeared excited about the changes.

Some fans even wished Paddy good luck in anticipation of his first show today, with one writing: “@PaddyMcGuinness sending you good luck vibes from Bolton for your first show on @BBCRadio2 you’ll dink dank do for us Paddy!” (sic)

Another tweeted: “@PaddyMcGuinness launches his brand new #BBCRadio2 Sunday Morning show NOW! Listen on @BBCSounds. Good luck Paddy.” (sic)

Listen to Paddy McGuinness every Sunday from 11am on BBC Radio 2 and BBC Sounds.