BBC Radio 1Xtra presenter DJ Ace is leaving the station after 21 years, it has been announced.
The presenter – real name Ashley Asomani – said it was time to “move on” from the long-running gig after more than two decades, according to BBC. His last R&B show is scheduled to air on Saturday, January 20, 2024.
“I loved my time at 1Xtra and have so many proud moments to look back on,” he said in a statement. “I'm very grateful for all the opportunities I've had.”
The radio DJ joined 1Xtra in 2002 and has presented shows such as Weekend Breakfast and 1Xtra's Live Lounge over the years.
Alicia Keys, Usher and John Legend are among the artists he has interviewed on the station throughout its 21 years.
Announcing the news, 1Xtra described Ace as “an integral part of the station over the years, hosting some of its most iconic moments”.
🚨NEW PROGRAM🚨@DJAce decided to leave the station after 21 years. Ace has been an integral part of the station over the years, hosting some of its most iconic moments.
Thanks for everything Ace❤️
Ace's final R&B show will be Saturday, January 20th. pic.twitter.com/huEM7gttNq
— BBC Radio 1Xtra (@1Xtra) December 21, 2023
The host's fans paid tribute to the radio veteran on social media, calling him a “true legend” and a “champion of R&B”.
Meanwhile, 1Xtra breakfast host Nadia Jae called him her “hero” on X/Twitter.
In a comment on Instagram, Radio 1 presenter Melvin Odoom wrote: “I don't think people fully appreciate the levels here! 21 years is no joke! I am honored to have had the opportunity to work on your show as your show assistant early in my career and you have always been one of my favorite hosts! Big up Denton!”
Earlier this year, it was announced that his daytime slot would be taken over by DJ Day Day.
Now, Chuckie will also join 1Xtra as the new host of The R&B Show (Saturdays, 11pm). His first show will be broadcast on Saturday, February 24.
In between, No Guidance – who NME this year he said “we have the potential to become British R&B icons” – he will host the R&B show for four weeks from Saturday 27 January.
Ace, who notably spent almost three years waiting for a kidney transplant in 2021, has advocated for a more open dialogue about organ donation among people from black and Asian backgrounds.
