Gary Lineker has topped this year’s BBC salary list yet again, just weeks after his controversial exit from the broadcaster.
In the past few days and weeks, the corporation has been forced to address several scandals, including allegations made about the behaviour of former MasterChef host Gregg Wallace and backlash to Bob Vylan’s performance at Glastonbury, which was broadcast on live TV.
Today, the company has published their list of top earners between 2024 and 2025, as part of their annual report, with Lineker, Zoe Ball and Vernon Kay among the highest-paid on-air stars.
Former Premier League and England footballer Lineker confirmed in May he will leave his presenting role after the conclusion of Match of the Day for the 2024/25 season.
He also said he will not be part of the BBC’s coverage of the 2026 World Cup or next season’s FA Cup coverage.
The 64-year-old’s exit came after he apologised for sharing a social media post about Zionism that contained an image of a rat.
Who are the BBC’s top earners in 2025?
Gary Lineker – £1,350,000 – £1,354,999
Zoe Ball – £515,000 – £519,99
Alan Shearer – £440,000 – £444,999
Greg James – £425,000 – £429,999
Nick Robinson – £410,000 – £414,999
Fiona Bruce – £410,000 – £414,999
Stephen Nolan – £405,000 – £409,999
Laura Kussenburg – £395,000 – £399,000
Vernon Kay – £390,000 – £394,999
Scott Mills – £355,000 – £359,999
Following him on the list of top earners is Zoe Ball, who earned £519,99, as Gary took home £1,354,999.
This marks a sharp decrease in Zoe’s salary last year, which was £954,999, as she finished in second place again.
It comes after Zoe announced in November last year that she was stepping down from her BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show after six years to ‘focus on family’.
Third on the list is Gary’s fellow Match of the Day presenter, Alan Shearer who earned between £440,000 – £444,999.
In fourth place is Radio 1 host Greg James, whose wage has increased from £419,000 to £425,000.
In 10th place again is Zoe’s replacement on Radio 2, Scott Mills who earned £355,000, an increase from £319,999 last year.
More to follow.
Got a story?
If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.