Jordan North to replace Roman Kemp on Capital Breakfast in radio shake-up

DJ Jordan North will replace Roman Kemp on Capital Radio’s breakfast show, it has been confirmed.

The announcement comes days after both North and Kemp quit their respective shows at a similar time, with the role changes appearing to occur quite abruptly.

After the BBC shared the news on Friday (16 February), North’s “absolutely gutted” Radio 1 co-host Vick Hope said she was “so sad” they “didn’t get a proper on-air send off”.

Meanwhile, the BBC then announced that reality TV star Jamie Laing, best known for appearing in Made in Chelsea, would be joining Hope as North’s Radio 1 replacement.

Days later, Kemp said he was leaving Capital Breakfast in an emotional announcement to his listeners, telling them: “I’ve not found it easy at all.”

Among Capital listeners, speculation was rife regarding who would replace Kemp, with many predicting that North’s timely depature from BBC Radio 1 might suggest that he was stepping into Kemp’s shoes.

North’s appointment at Capital will see him reunite with former Radio 1 colleague Chris Stark as well as co-host Sian Welby – he will take over the role in April and host this year’s Capital Summertime Ball, which takes place in June.

Announcing his departure from BBC Radio 1 in an Instagram post, North thanked his producers, co-hosts and listeners, saving a special shout-out for “partner in crime” Vick, writing: “I’ll miss being on air with you every day.”

open image in gallery

North presented the Radio 1 drivetime show since 2021 and had worked at the station for 10 years.

He continued: “MOST IMPORTANTLY the biggest of thank yous to the fantastic listeners who have been really generous and always made me feel welcome, your kind words & messages have been so lovely, THANK YOU SO MUCH.”

On his Capital appointment, North said he was excited to “get stuck in, to create the most fun and entertaining breakfast show”.

“Getting to host Capital Breakfast has always been a dream of mine and it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity that I simply couldn’t turn down,” he continued.

open image in gallery

In an Instagram Story, Kemp voiced his support for North’s appointment, writing: “Couldn’t have gone to a better bloke”.

“Buzzing for him and if you’re a listener, you’ll prefer him to me anyway,” he joked.

North replied, writing: “Thank you so much mate, you’ve been an absolute gentleman and was such a lovely moment on air this morning, really appreciate it. BIG shoes to fill.”

Ashley Tabor-King CBE, Founder and Executive President of Global said that the move was a “great signing for Capital”.

“Jordan’s a hugely experienced radio presenter and his warmth, genuine relatability and energy, combined with a spirit for mischief and unrivalled knowledge of hit music, is a perfect fit for Capital breakfast.”

Announcing his departure from Capital, Kemp said it was “not an easy” decision to make.

“Capital is my family, you as the wonderful listeners have been there for me at my best, and you’ve been there at my absolute lowest to pull me back to happiness.”

“Capital and Global Radio helped make me the man I am, it is all I know. But I know it’s time for me to leave.”

Kemp joined Capital almost 10 years ago and his departure “is not a decision that just happened over night”.