Dean McCullough: Balancing Authenticity and Impartiality at BBC Radio 1
In a climate where LGBTQ+ rights continue to spark intense discussions, Dean McCullough, the Early Breakfast Show presenter on BBC Radio 1, faces a challenging dilemma: how to remain authentic to his identity while adhering to the broadcaster’s strict impartiality on social issues. As an openly gay broadcaster who has long been an advocate for visibility and representation, particularly after his time at Gaydio, the UK’s pioneering LGBTQ+ FM radio service, navigating this territory is no simple task.
“It has taken me a decade of hard work to reach this point, so I don’t take anything for granted,” says the 32-year-old from Newtownabbey, Co Antrim. “However, it can be quite challenging to keep my thoughts to myself, especially when issues that resonate deeply with me arise. I strive to find avenues to raise awareness about matters that I care about, but working at the BBC means I can’t express political opinions. It can be quite frustrating.”
Maintaining impartiality becomes even more complex for McCullough given his own experiences with social challenges affecting the LGBTQ+ community. He has personal insights into the issue of hidden homelessness—where individuals lack stable housing but remain uncounted in official statistics because they do not seek assistance from housing services. A recent report from the charity Stonewall Housing revealed a staggering 33 percent increase in demand for its services, with discrimination and family rejection identified as the leading causes of homelessness within LGBTQ+ communities.
“In my early twenties, I was constantly shifting from one temporary home to another, and many of those living situations were incredibly unstable,” McCullough recalls. “I found myself surrounded by housemates who struggled with substance abuse, which pulled me into that environment as well. There were weekends when I would go out on a Friday night and stay out until Monday morning, hopping from one friend’s place to another. I thought I was living life to the fullest, but the truth was, I didn’t have a permanent address. I lacked the keys to a space I could truly call home. I wasn’t homeless in the traditional sense, but I was grappling with job instability, which made it impossible for me to secure my own place. There was no sense of stability in my life. I believe many would be surprised by how prevalent these issues are, particularly within the queer community.
McCullough emphasizes the current struggles faced by young trans individuals. “It’s a harrowing time for many young trans people who come out and face prejudice from those who should support them the most,” he says. He has aligned himself with Comic Relief’s Every Step of the Way program, which aims to empower young people who are either at immediate risk of or currently experiencing homelessness. “There’s this damaging stereotype that homelessness is a choice or that it’s the individual’s fault, but nobody chooses to be homeless. It’s heartbreaking when people grow up in unstable environments or are rejected by society due to their identities. They need our support, not our judgment.”
Fortunately, McCullough is among those who managed to break the cycle of hardship. After volunteering at Wandsworth Radio in London, he secured his first job at Gaydio and eventually became one of the few openly gay presenters at Radio 1 in 2021. Today, he hosts the Early Breakfast Show every morning at 5 AM. “For me, being on the radio first thing in the morning is nothing short of magical. It’s the best part of the day because it’s just me, sharing the hits, engaging in conversation, and knowing I’m helping listeners start their day on a positive note. This was the show that Scott Mills originally hosted, so I feel incredibly fortunate to be here,” he shares.
Reflecting on his journey, McCullough adds, “When I was younger, I was always visualizing my future career. I began volunteering in a small office with limited resources, but I loved every moment. I knew I wanted to pursue this path, and I started to believe there was room for someone like me in this industry—a gay, Northern Irish presenter. There was no one like that when I was growing up, but we needed that voice on Radio 1. So, I hustled relentlessly. Now I’m here, and I still can’t believe it.”
While McCullough appreciates his success, he acknowledges that early mornings come with their own set of challenges, albeit less daunting than his time on I’m a Celebrity. “Waking up at 4 AM is no joke,” he admits. “But I’d choose that over another bushtucker trial any day.” He concludes, “Radio is in my blood; it’s like medicine to me. Even when life gets tough, radio has always been my constant. Honestly, I feel a bit sad handing over to Greg [James] after my show.”
Dean McCullough is also supporting the Omaze Million Pound House Draw. Omaze has committed to donating at least £1 million from their Norfolk draw, with the winner being announced live on Red Nose Day.
