Iain Lee announces his retirement from radio to focus on counselling career

Iain Lee has announced his decision to step back from radio broadcasting after 30 years on air to focus on becoming a counsellor.

The former I’m A Celebrity star, 49, took to social media on Monday to share his news with fans and explain why he has chosen to make the change.

Writing on Twitter, he said: “Hey everyone, a bit of news, a few weeks ago I handed my notice in at Jack FM.

“Not sure how long I’ve got left (maybe nothing after this tweet!). It wasn’t working for me with no producer, podcast or daily best bits.

“It’s also made me realise I don’t want to work in radio anymore so I’m announcing my retirement from broadcasting to focus full time on my counselling work.

“There are of course exceptions. Patreon will continue, as will voiceover work and the odd gig on 4 Extra. I’ll still consider offers but won’t chase them,” he continued.

Adding: “I’ve been working in this industry for 30 years and I’m really tired. So, on to new and better adventures. Thank you radio, for most of it it was a blast.”

Lee – who shares two sons with wife Helena Robinson, from whom he separated in 2018 – previously praised charity The Samaritans for helping him, revealing they had saved his life on a number of occasions.

He went on a course in 2020 to train to become a counsellor.

The broadcaster was previously a mainstay at talkRADIO and has fronted Jack FM’s breakfast show since last year. He said: “I’m in a really privileged position as I have a few quid, I can afford private therapy.

“The Samaritans are amazing. I’ve called them when I wanted to kill myself. Samaritans have saved my life three times.

“When I was in I’m a Celeb I cried a couple of times on camera and when I came out, I had loads of supportive emails and tweets. I have two young boys I want them to grow up in a world where it’s OK to cry and it’s OK to ask people for help.”