'I quit the BBC because it needs to change - my co-stars have had horror experiences'

BBC presenter Nihal Arthanayake has announced that he is leaving the broadcaster after 23 years, stating that it is facing a crisis and needs change. He mentions that some of his esteemed colleagues have has horrorific experiences while working at the public broadcaster.

The award-winning host, known for his interviews with musical stars including Elton John, Billy Connolly, and Liam Gallagher, spoke out about his unexpected departure from BBC Radio 5 Live, saying: "I couldn't be happy there any more." Arthanayake, 54, shared from his home in Stockport that he feels the "BBC is in an existential crisis, especially BBC News". His departure, which he insists is not a midlife crisis but a deliberate career shift, comes just as he prepares to start a new chapter as a stand-up comedian taking to the stage for the first time Saturday, July 26.

The presenter also suggested that there were wider issues behind the scenes, as he spoke about working at BBC North in Manchester when he moved there from London nine years ago with his wife, Eesha, and their children.

"I didn't see anyone who looked like me, and it's as much about class as it is about colour and faith," said Arthanayake, who has been vocal about what he believes are the BBC's struggles with diversity and inclusion.

He added to The Times: "I've been told by a number of people of colour who work in production, even presenters, how marginalised they felt at BBC North." Despite earning a reported £145,000 salary, Arthanayake decided to walk away from a job that he felt had become creatively unfulfilling and an employer with whom he claims has issues that "can not be solved" under its current leadership.

He also said the decision to take up stand-up comedy was "terrifying" as he would be "saying goodbye to a steady income" after covering pivotal moments such as the 7/7 attacks in London and Queen Elizabeth II's death. BBC's loyal listeners may see Arthanayake's next chapter as an unexpected one, but despite the challenges, he is choosing to remain "optimistic".

Last year, many high-profile presenters left their well-paid roles as they turned their backs on the public broadcaster. Stars like Karishima Patel, Emmanuele Lhoni, Laurie Margolis, Elise Evans and Robin Brant left their jobs to pursue new ventures away from the strict rules of working for the "impartial" network.

This year, Match Of The Day host Gary Lineker also departed the BBC after decades hosting the popular sports programme that saw him become the highest earner for the broadcaster.