A Former Children’s TV Presenter’s Unexpected Exit from CBBC
Michael Underwood, a former children’s television presenter, has shared for the first time the story of how he was unexpectedly let go from his role at CBBC. Known for hosting popular shows like Jungle Run and working on various other programs, Michael’s career seemed to be filled with success. However, behind the scenes, there were unexpected challenges that shaped his journey.
Michael began his career at CBBC in 1999 and worked there until 2002 when he transitioned to CITV, a channel that eventually closed after over 40 years of operation. He became a well-known figure in children’s television, hosting game shows, reporting on events, and even commenting on international contests like the Junior Eurovision Song Contest.
Now, at 50 years old, Michael works as a primary school teacher and recently reflected on his past experiences by answering questions on TikTok. In one video, he discussed his move to ITV, starting with his reluctance to leave CBBC.
“I didn’t wanna go to ITV. I loved working at CBBC. It’s where I started out. I had so many friends there; it was fun going to work every single day. Why would I want to leave?” he said.
The Sudden Departure
Michael recalled how his departure from CBBC came about. He explained that there were two bosses: one in charge of presenters and another overseeing the entire channel. When the presenter boss changed, he initiated meetings with all the presenters, which wasn’t unusual. Michael was close to renewing his contract, which usually involved discussions about salary and responsibilities.
During the meeting, the new boss told him, “Michael, you are just coming up to your three years at CBBC. I think you’ve had a great run up to this point, but now I think it’s time for you to move on.”
Michael was taken aback by the request, stating he was “gobsmacked” and “spaced out” due to the shock. He couldn’t remember what he said during the meeting, only that he left the office thinking, “I’ve just been fired.”
The Aftermath
After the meeting, Michael went to see the big boss, who had known him for years. He asked, “I think I’ve just been fired.” The big boss replied, “What do you mean? I know nothing about this. Leave it with me.”
Michael then went back to the studio and spoke with Angellica Bell, who suggested he consider moving to ITV. She said, “If the BBC don’t want you, why don’t you go to ITV?”
Michael called ITV, and they offered him twice the money plus three new shows guaranteed. Although the offer was tempting, he wanted to stay at CBBC. He continued working through the Christmas period and was called back in January.
In the meeting, he was praised for his work over the festive season and was offered a year contract to stay. However, he realized that the presenter boss didn’t like him and might not give him much to do. This made him decide to move to ITV instead.
The Positive Outcome
Interestingly, Michael noted that his decision to leave CBBC led to a positive outcome. “But here’s the good thing. If I hadn’t gone to ITV, I wouldn’t have got Jungle Run!” he said.
Fans appreciated his honesty and the stories he shared. One follower wrote, “These videos are like full circle, got to watch the shows as a kid and now I get the gossip as a 30-year-old.”
Additional Insights
In other videos, Michael revealed more secrets about his career. For instance, he mentioned being paid £8,000 a month for hosting Saturday morning show Ministry of Mayhem alongside Stephen Mulhern and Holly Willoughby. However, he also admitted that he had to pay 40% tax and didn’t save enough during his twenties.
Since 2020, Michael has been working as a teacher, announcing his retirement from presenting when work dried up. He still continues his weekend morning slot on Virgin Radio.
As of September 2024, Michael announced on LinkedIn that he was happy to be starting a new full-time position as form teacher at King’s College School, Wimbledon.
