Why is Greg James not on Radio 1 today?

RADIO 1 listeners tuning in to the Breakfast Show this morning (August 4) will have noticed a familiar voice was missing from the airwaves. Presenter Greg James was absent from his usual slot, with fellow DJ Charlie Hedges stepping in to cover the show. Greg confirmed he would be taking time away from the microphone to grieve Credit: Getty The presenter broke the news to fans in an emotional social media update Credit: Instagram/@barnixcx Here is everything you need to know about why Greg isn’t on the radio today, and when he is expected to return. Why is Greg James not on Radio 1 today? Greg, 40, is off air following the tragic death of his beloved dog, Barney. Sign up for the Showbiz newsletter Thank you! The presenter broke the news to fans in an emotional social media update, explaining that he and his wife, author Bella Mackie, 43, had to put their pet to sleep at home. Admitting he “can’t stop crying,” Greg confirmed he would be taking time away from the microphone to grieve. “I’m sorry to bring such horrible news but we had to put our lovely Barn to sleep earlier today,” he said. “I can’t really get my head around it. But he was peaceful, we were with him at home in the garden in the sunshine and I can’t stop crying. “We’re completely floored by it and I can’t believe our little mate has gone and it’s very real and very raw and just so f***ing sad. He was the best.” Greg added a short note at the end of his statement confirming his absence: “Ps. Not on the show tomorrow obvs x” Most read in Showbiz Barney – affectionately known as “Barn” – was a regular fixture on Greg’s social media pages and had built up his own loyal fanbase among Radio 1 listeners. The eight-year-old pooch was adopted by Greg and Bella from the Battersea Dogs & Cats Home. Barney – affectionately known as ‘Barn’ – was a regular fixture on Greg’s social media pages Credit: Instagram/@barnixcx Just recently, Greg posted a heartwarming video celebrating Barney’s eighth birthday, where the couple sang to him before treating him to an ice cream. Reflecting on how Barney came into their lives, Greg previously wrote:“Eight years ago he didn’t know we existed and I’ll be forever grateful to the b******s that gave him to Battersea which eventually led him to us. “He’s ruined our lives in the best possible way and I wouldn’t change any of it.” Following the loss, Greg turned off the comments on his Instagram post and politely asked fans to give the couple space. “I know how loved this unbelievably daft farty brilliant dog was,” he wrote. “I hope you understand why comments are off and can I just ask you to not pile in with DMs particularly for Bella for a bit please.” Who is replacing Greg James on the Breakfast Show? Radio 1 favourite Charlie Hedges took over the reins for today’s (4 August) Breakfast Show while Greg takes time off. It has not yet been confirmed exactly when Greg will return to his regular morning slot, but listeners are expected to be kept updated via social media and Radio 1’s scheduling. Comment now