Former Love Island contestant Chris Hughes has been unexpectedly axed from the BBC’s Hundred cricket coverage after four years, in what insiders are calling a major shake-up just days before the new season begins.
Chris, 33, who had become a familiar presence on BBC Sport since 2021, was reportedly informed that the broadcaster would be “going in a different direction.” A BBC insider explained: “Chris has done a good job for four years, but this year we’re shifting focus back to the sport. There’ll be less emphasis on the entertainment angle.”
The decision comes on the heels of a controversial moment involving Chris during a live interview with Southern Brave’s Maitlan Brown. When Brown mentioned that her team had watched Barbie together as a bonding activity, Chris quipped: “You’re a little Barbie yourself, innit, with your blue eyes” – a comment that drew an awkward laugh from the cricketer. The BBC later confirmed that they had spoken to Chris about the incident and deemed the remark “not appropriate.”
As for his replacement, the BBC will now lean on cricket-savvy presenters like former England players Isa Guha and Alex Hartley. Radio Five Live’s Rick Edwards is set to take over Hughes’ entertainment-style role.
The axing also comes just weeks after Chris officially confirmed his relationship with American singer and former Dance Moms star JoJo Siwa. The pair met earlier this year on Celebrity Big Brother UK, where they reportedly formed a “soulmate friendship” that later blossomed into a romance.
On August 1 – National Girlfriends Day – Chris posted a series of intimate photos with JoJo, calling her “my universe” and declaring, “This is my GF.” The couple have been increasingly public about their relationship, sharing affectionate updates on social media.
With a new love and a fresh controversy in tow, Chris now finds himself at a career crossroads – and fans are left wondering what’s next.
