BBC boss on Chris Evans: ‘There was no unprofessional behaviour’

The presenter had been accused of 'bullying' during his time on the show 
Professional? A BBC exec has slammed reports Chris Evans was ever 'unprofessional' on Top Gear
BBC World Wide/Jeff Spicer
Jennifer Ruby7 July 2016
The Weekender

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Chris Evans never displayed any ‘unprofessional behaviour’ while filming Top Gear, a BBC boss has claimed.

Insisting that the TV and radio presenter was never anything less than a complete professional, BBC Trust's chairman Rona Fairhead has said that reports of ‘bullying’ were false.

Speaking at a Culture, Media and Sport committee meeting on Wednesday, Fairhead said that she had received assurances from BBC director general Tony Hall.

“He assured me, he gave me a specific assurance, [that there was] no unprofessional behaviour,” she said.

“He was satisfied with that. As far as any other allegations, I feel it would be inappropriate for me to talk about a member of staff."

The BBC have been forced to deny allegations of ‘bullying’ throughout Evans’ run on the new series of the show.

Back in April, they released a statement, which read: “Since taking on Top Gear alongside his Radio 2 breakfast show, Chris has displayed even greater commitment and professionalism.

"He remains a team player, a huge asset to the BBC and continues to show outstanding leadership in all he does on radio, television or for Children in Need.”

Evans stepped down from his role on the show on Monday, after the finale episode aired to low ratings.

He wrote on Twitter: “Stepping down from Top Gear. Gave it my best shot but sometimes that's not enough. The team are beyond brilliant, I wish them all the best.

“Full steam ahead then with Radio 2, CarFest, Children In Need, 500 Words and whatever else we can dream up in the future."

Top Gear Media Launch - In pictures

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