Chris Evans, 53, stunned listeners when he appeared to threaten his friend and Virgin Radio Breakfast show co-host Vassos Alexander with the sack live on air. The presenter became embroiled in the awkward exchange earlier this week, when he was expecting one of the cast members from ITV’s The Durrells to appear as a guest on the show. After playing a track by Sam Fender, Chris announced: “I think we’ve got one of The Durrells on the show in a bit.” The radio host then saw the opportunity to make a witty dig at his co-star.
He abruptly announced: “Well if we haven’t, Vassos, you’re sacked to be honest.”
Fortunately, Vassos saw the funny side of Chris’s comment, as he quickly burst into a fit of giggles.
Vassos has worked with Chris since his days on The Chris Evans Breakfast Show on BBC Radio 2, acting as the sports presenter on the programme.
He then accompanied the radio legend in the new chapter of his career at Virgin Radio.
The sports expert recently showed his emotional side on the show after Chris told him the story of a four-year-old girl, who had posted a Mother’s Day card for her late mum.
The TV and radio personality then revealed that a Royal Mail staff member had responded to the letter, provoking a very tearful response from Vassos.
Chris introduced the subject by saying: “You won’t read a more heart-warming story this year”, declaring a “mascara warning” due to the poignant nature of the topic.
After hearing his pal’s explanation of the card, Vassos predicted: “I’ll break down in the second or third paragraph.”
The original Despicable Me-themed card from the little girl read: “You’re one in a Minion, Mum”, while the letter in response echoed the sentiment, saying: “You’re one in a Minion to me. I love you so much.”
Additionally, the broadcasters noted that the return address on the envelope of the letter read: “1 Angel Gate, In The Clouds, Heaven.”
The duo took over the Virgin Radio Breakfast Show earlier this year, after a nine year stint on BBC Radio 2.
Although Chris has only just got started in his new role, he recently implied that he is planning on retiring “soon”.
The star got onto the subject during a conversation with a newly retired fan on the airwaves, who shared: “Today for the first time Chris I’m never going back to work, I retired.”
The listener went on to reveal that he was planning on using the time to get fit in the gym and sort his garage out.
Chris appeared to be slightly jealous as he replied: “That’s fantastic, come back tomorrow and tell us how your first day of retirement was.”
The presenter then cheekily added: “I’ll need some tips soon.”
Chris Evans’ Virgin Radio Breakfast Show airs weekdays at 6.30am.