BBC star pulled off air mid-show after struggling
A BBC Radio 4 star was pulled off air mid-show yesterday after he appeared to be struggling.
The Today programme host could barely get his words out as he read out the headlines.
Justin Webb, who co-hosts the flagship show alongside Anna Foster, left fans very worried as he sounded strained on-air.
The sick star was heard clearing his throat on multiple occasions and Anna was forced to take the lead to give him some reprieve.
Justin managed to introduce Simon King’s weather forecast and ask a BBC News journalist questions on Open AI’s breach of Australian government websites.
But it all became a bit too much for Justin, 65, and he was later sent to the Conservative party conference to give his voice a break.
Read more on BBC Radio 4 stars
Anna said: “It is 20 to seven now. Jonny Dymond is here, good morning.
“Important to say, if you’ve heard Justin’s voice this morning, he’s at the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham.
“He’s struggling a bit with his throat, so we’re saving him. We’re saving him for that. And Johnny, you’re here with me to continue with everything.”
Jonny, the Beeb’s royal correspondent, added: “Poor man has the conference lurgi that sweeps around these places every year.”
Fans flocked to X after hearing poor Justin’s hoarse voice.
“Crikey that sounds painful – a lorry load of Lemsip please for Justin Webb,” wrote one fan.
Another listener said: “Chip in a tenner to get him a pack of Lemsip.”
A third joked: “Justin Webb bravely presenting the Today programme despite apparently having swallowed a badger.”
“Is he ok?” added a fourth listener.
Justin has been the main presenter on BBC Radio 4 for 17 years.
Before his lengthy stint on the programme he was BBC North America Editor and served as their chief radio correspondent based in Washington D.C.