Scott Mills Breaks Silence Following BBC Termination and Police Investigation
Scott Mills, the former Radio 2 breakfast show host, has issued a powerful statement addressing his recent dismissal from the BBC and the longstanding police investigation linked to him. The 53-year-old broadcaster’s contract was abruptly ended last Friday amid serious allegations concerning his personal conduct.
Metropolitan Police Investigation and Allegations
The Metropolitan Police launched an inquiry into Mills in December 2016, focusing on allegations of grave sexual offenses against a teenage boy under the age of 16. These alleged incidents reportedly occurred between 1997 and 2000. Despite the severity of the claims, the Crown Prosecution Service concluded in May 2019 that there was insufficient evidence to proceed with charges, effectively closing the case.
BBC’s Response and Contract Termination
The BBC confirmed on Wednesday that it had been aware of the police investigation since 2017. However, they decided to terminate Mills’ contract only after receiving new information in the weeks leading up to his dismissal. A BBC spokesperson emphasized the organization’s commitment to fostering a culture that upholds clear behavioral standards and stated that decisive action is taken when those expectations are not met.
Scott Mills’ Public Statement
In his first public response following the BBC’s decision, Mills acknowledged his involvement in the police investigation and sought to clarify the situation. He said, “The recent announcement that I am no longer contracted to the BBC has led to the publication of rumour and speculation.”
He confirmed the allegation from 2016 of a historic sexual offence, explaining, “I fully cooperated with the police investigation and responded in 2018. The police submitted evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service, which determined that the evidential threshold had not been met to bring charges.”
Mills further appealed for privacy, noting the investigation pertained to events nearly 30 years ago and was closed seven years prior. “I hope that the public and the media will understand and respect my wish not to make any further public comment on this matter,” he said. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to those who offered support, including his former colleagues and loyal listeners whom he deeply misses.
Career and Recent Developments
Mills’ last broadcast aired on Tuesday, 24 March, when he signed off with “back tomorrow.” However, the following day’s show was hosted by Gary Davies, who did not explain Mills’ absence. Mills had taken over the Radio 2 breakfast show in 2025, succeeding Zoe Ball after an extensive career across BBC and regional radio, earning a salary between £355,000 and £359,999.
The BBC spokesperson reiterated that they had engaged directly with Mills prior to ending his contract, highlighting ongoing efforts to enhance workplace culture and uphold stringent conduct standards following an independent culture review last year.
