Former BBC Radio 2 star Scott Mills has finally spoken out after his sudden dismissal from the broadcaster, issuing an emotional statement that mixes gratitude, clarification, and quiet defiance.
The 53-year-old presenter was abruptly dropped by the BBC after the corporation said it had received “new information” linked to a historic sexual offence investigation first raised in 2017. The case itself dates back decades — with allegations relating to events said to have occurred between 1997 and 2000.
Despite the seriousness of the claims, Mills had previously been investigated and cleared, with no charges ever brought.
Breaking his silence, Mills thanked those who stood by him during what he described as an overwhelming period. He said he wished to thank from the bottom of his heart everyone who had reached out with kindness, including former colleagues and his “beloved listeners”, adding that he missed them deeply.
Addressing the controversy directly, he confirmed that the Metropolitan Police statement referenced him and explained that an allegation had been made in 2016 regarding a historic offence. He said he fully cooperated with the investigation and responded to police inquiries in 2018.
Mills stressed that a full file had been passed to the Crown Prosecution Service, which ultimately concluded that there was not enough evidence to bring charges.
He also made it clear that, given the age of the allegation — nearly 30 years old — and the fact the investigation was closed seven years ago, he hoped the public and media would respect his decision not to comment further.
His statement comes amid growing confusion and backlash over the BBC’s decision to terminate his contract after nearly three decades on air.
The corporation has admitted it was aware of the police investigation as far back as 2017, yet continued to employ Mills for years afterward. However, executives now insist that newly surfaced information prompted immediate action.
In a fresh statement, the BBC said it had recently obtained additional details relating to Mills and, after speaking with him directly, decided to act “decisively” in line with its internal values and standards.
The broadcaster acknowledged the shock among listeners and the wave of speculation that has followed, but insisted there are limits to what it can publicly disclose due to legal sensitivities.
Meanwhile, questions continue to mount.
TV personality Piers Morgan publicly challenged the decision, pointing out that Mills had already been investigated years ago with no further action taken, asking why he would now be dismissed over the same matter.
Media expert Mark Borkowski also warned that unless the BBC provides clearer answers about what has changed, it risks a serious backlash from audiences confused by the timing.
Behind the scenes, sources suggest the renewed scrutiny may have been influenced by the recent Channel 5 docudrama about disgraced former BBC presenter Huw Edwards, which has reignited conversations about accountability within the corporation.
Some insiders believe the timing is “not a coincidence”, with one source claiming the programme signalled that a wider reckoning could be underway.
As the fallout continues, concerns have also been raised about Mills’ wellbeing, with reports suggesting he has withdrawn from contact with friends since the announcement.
For now, the veteran broadcaster appears to be stepping away from the spotlight — leaving behind a 27-year legacy now overshadowed by unanswered questions and a decision that continues to divide public opinion.
