Adele Roberts

Adele Roberts is a British broadcaster, DJ, television personality, and author best known for her work on BBC Radio 1 and BBC Radio 1Xtra. With a career spanning radio, television, and live events, Adele has become a familiar and trusted voice across the UK, recognised for her authenticity, warmth, and energy. She first rose to public prominence as a contestant on Big Brother, later appearing on shows including ‘I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!’ and ‘Celebrity Coach Trip’. As the first Black woman to host the BBC Radio 1 Early Breakfast Show, Adele has broken barriers in broadcasting while using her platform to champion representation, inclusion, and visibility.

Adele’s broadcasting career began in Leeds, where she developed her skills on student radio before securing her first professional role at Rock FM, presenting the Smooth Grooves Show. She went on to join BBC Radio 1Xtra in 2002, establishing herself as a dynamic presenter before moving into a flagship role on BBC Radio 1. Alongside her radio career, Adele has become a regular presenter for BBC Sport, including coverage of the London Marathon, and has built a reputation as a versatile broadcaster capable of connecting with diverse audiences across formats.

Openly bisexual, Adele is a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and representation. In 2013, she presented the documentary ‘Coming Out’ for BBC Radio 1 and 1Xtra, sharing powerful personal stories to support and empower others navigating their identity. Her work has earned widespread recognition, including multiple nominations for Broadcaster of the Year at the Diva Awards and nominations at the LGBT Awards. In 2022, she was named Role Model of the Year at the British LGBT Awards, reflecting her impact as both a broadcaster and a visible advocate for equality and acceptance.

In 2021, Adele was diagnosed with bowel cancer, a life changing moment that she has since used to inspire and educate others. Following successful treatment, she announced she was cancer free in 2022 and has become a leading voice in raising awareness of the illness. She is also the author of ‘Personal Best: From Rock Bottom to the Top of the World’, a powerful account of her journey through adversity and recovery. Adele has shared her story widely across national media, including appearances on ‘Good Morning Britain’ and ‘Lorraine’, helping to normalise conversations around cancer, recovery, and living with a stoma. She speaks openly about her experience, working to remove stigma and encourage honest discussions around health and resilience. As a speaker, she combines humour, honesty, and strength to deliver impactful talks on overcoming adversity, embracing identity, and using your voice to create meaningful change.