Jordan North talks his career dream and why he thinks he doesn’t have the “best voice” for radio like Greg James

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Jordan North talks about how he got into radio, why he decided to play in Soccer Aid, and why he chose a different career path than his dad.

What’s the view from your sofa?

My home is definitely set up for watching TV – almost all the furniture faces a screen, and I have a TV in every room, including the living room, kitchen, bedroom, and guest room. However, I also enjoy creating a cozy atmosphere with bookshelves and candles.

What do you watch on your many tellies?

I enjoy a good documentary now and then, but I usually end up watching familiar, comforting shows like Friends, Modern Family, The Office, or The Royle Family – I really love them! There’s nothing better than coming home from work with no plans, having a cup of tea, a little chocolate, and a yogurt, putting on comfy clothes, and relaxing in front of the TV.

How does presenting the Capital breakfast show affect your TV viewing?

I wake up at exactly 4:20 every morning and aim to be in bed by nine, which means I start my bedtime routine around 8:30. I usually relax by watching a drama episode and then a half-hour sitcom like Friends. I’ve made some lifestyle changes to achieve my goal of hosting a national breakfast show – it’s always been a dream of mine! But I really need to stick to a strict schedule and can’t stay up late watching TV.

What happens when you’re not?

I need about six hours of sleep to be able to do the show well. If I get any less, I really struggle to speak clearly by 9am – and I’m live on the air until 10am. Trying to do the show while hungover is a bad idea; I learned that from personal experience. It’s a mistake you only make once, or maybe twice at most.

When did you first become attuned to radio?

Growing up, my dad’s Army career meant we moved a lot. I quickly learned that the best way to get a feel for a new town was to listen to its local radio, particularly the morning shows. It wasn’t just the music; it was the DJs, the callers, even the silly quizzes. It all painted a picture of what that place was really like, and honestly, I’ve been hooked on local radio ever since. It’s a weird obsession, I admit, but it just instantly connects me to a place.

What makes yours a great voice for radio?

I don’t think my voice is ideally suited for radio. It’s a northern accent, not a standard, southern one, and it’s not to everyone’s taste – and that’s fine. There are plenty of other radio voices, especially in the mornings, that are more conventionally appealing. Early in my career, I tried to adopt a ‘radio voice,’ but it felt unnatural and forced. Now, I just use my own voice and accent, which is unique, but it’s not as smooth and neutral as someone like Greg James on Radio 1.

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What was your plan B if radio didn’t work out?

I originally considered a practical trade like bricklaying. However, my English teacher suggested I try media studies when it became available as a GCSE option, and she thought I’d enjoy it. I ended up taking that instead, which was lucky, because I didn’t last long with the bricklaying – I actually got fired.

You never thought about joining the Army?

Honestly, it was a little awkward. My dad, picking me up from drama club, casually mentioned he always figured I wouldn’t follow my brothers into the Army. It felt like he was acknowledging I was… different, in a way that really stuck with me.

You’re taking part in Soccer Aid this year – what does that mean to you?

I’ve been watching this since I was a child and even went to Old Trafford to see it with my friends a couple of times. So, actually playing on the same pitch as someone like Wayne Rooney feels surreal. I’m really nervous and just hoping I don’t mess it up!

Any ambitions still unfulfilled?

I’d love to host the Brit Awards.

Authors

Gareth McLean

For almost three decades, Gareth McLean has been a professional television writer and critic. He’s reviewed countless shows and interviewed a wide range of personalities, including Liza Minnelli and Jimmy Savile. He’s also worked as a writer creating content for television itself.

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2026-05-18 19:36