Richard Bacon's Biography

Richard was born in 1975 and grew up in Mansfield, Nottingham. His first media job was as a roving reporter for BBC Radio Nottingham from 1994 to 1996.

In 1996 he joined Live TV as a presenter, and then got his big break when he joined the BBC's flagship children's programme Blue Peter at the beginning of 1997, until a scandal cost him his job in October 1998.

Richard's career survived and he went on to present such shows as The Big Breakfast and Top Of The Pops, and to develop a successful radio career.

After successful stints across commercial radio Richard joined BBC Radio 5 Live in October 2007, where he now hosts the weekday afternoon show.

He presents his 6 Music show with best friend and right-hand man Marc Haynes.

What was the first record you bought?
Europe - The Final Countdown

The six records you couldn't live without?
1. Top Gear Sub Zero Driving Anthems
2. Now That's What I Call Music Volume 8
3. Steve Penk's Essential Windups Volume
4. Martine McCutcheon - Who Does She Think She Is? (Audiobook)
5. Pirates Of Penzance performed by the West Bridgford Operatic Society, Nottingham
6. Anything by Jools Holland

Do you have a favourite DJ?
Dean Jackson, BBC Radio Leicester

What was your first gig?
Vampire Weekend, London 02 Brixton Academy, February 2010

Favourite gig?
Vampire Weekend, London 02 Brixton Academy, February 2010

What's been the highlight of your career so far?
Introducing Sean Paul's latest video on Top Of The Pops with Fearne Cotton.