Gemma Atkinson

Gemma Atkinson began transitioning from acting to a major career in British radio broadcasting in the mid-2010s, building a reputation as a warm, highly relatable, and engaging voice on the airwaves. Her initial foray into professional presenting began in early 2017 when she joined Key 103 (now Hits Radio) in Manchester. Alongside co-hosts Mike Toolan and Matt Haslam, she co-anchored the highly popular Key 103 Breakfast Show, quickly establishing herself as a staple of North West regional radio while balancing her simultaneous high-profile run on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing.

Following the rebranding of the station to Hits Radio in 2018, Gemma Atkinson transitioned from early mornings to co-hosting the Hits Radio Breakfast Show on a national scale, partnering with Gethin Jones and Dave Vitty. Her natural charisma and down-to-earth Northern humour helped the network anchor its new identity. Though she took maternity leave in 2019 following the birth of her first child, her prominent status within the Bauer Media group remained unchanged, setting up a highly anticipated return to a new broadcasting slot.

Upon her return to the airwaves later in 2019, Gemma Atkinson moved to the prestigious Hits Radio Drivetime slot, joining forces once again with longtime collaborator Mike Toolan. Broadcasting weekdays across the UK, the dynamic duo became a massive hit for the station, renowned for their effortless banter, everyday anecdotes, and lighthearted celebrity interviews. Her consistent success on Drivetime solidified her position as one of the network’s most reliable and beloved flagship presenters.

Beyond standard radio, Gemma Atkinson has significantly expanded her broadcasting footprint into digital audio and podcasting. She has hosted successful long-form audio formats, including The Overshare with Gemma Atkinson, where she tackles candid, real-life dilemmas with her trademark honesty, and Lost in Translation, which focuses on multicultural parenting. Her broadcasting career continues to thrive across both national radio frequencies and major digital streaming platforms.