Livesey: A Career in Journalism, Broadcasting, and Media
From the fast-paced world of tabloid journalism to the prestigious halls of the BBC, Livesey has maintained a diverse and high-profile presence in the British media landscape. His professional journey spans several decades, transitioning from print newspapers in the UK and Middle East to becoming a familiar voice and face across national radio and regional television.
Key Facts
- Print Background: Served as editor-in-chief and managing director of the Daily Sport and Sunday Sport.
- Radio Presence: Hosted various slots on BBC Radio Lancashire and BBC Radio 5 Live, including the late-night and Drive programmes.
- Television Work: Presented BBC North West Tonight, Inside Out, and several BBC Two documentaries.
- Author: Wrote Babes, Booze, Orgies and Aliens (1998) detailing his time at Sport Newspapers.
The Print Journalism Era
Livesey began his professional trajectory at the Nelson Leader before expanding his horizons internationally. He spent time in Dubai working with Sam Sloan at the Gulf News, gaining experience in the Middle East before returning to his native Lancashire to work for the Lancashire Evening Telegraph.
The most defining period of his print career was an 18-year tenure with Sport Newspapers. During this time, he rose to the positions of editor-in-chief and managing director for both the Daily Sport and Sunday Sport. He later chronicled the chaotic nature of this environment in his 1998 book, Babes, Booze, Orgies and Aliens: The Inside Story of Sport Newspapers.
Transition to Radio and Television
After resigning from Sport Newspapers in August 2006, Livesey transitioned into broadcasting with the BBC. He initially joined BBC Radio Lancashire, where he presented a Saturday morning show before moving to the station's Breakfast show.
His television work began with specialized documentaries on BBC Two. He presented Crumpet: A Very British Sex Symbol on December 28, 2005, followed by Beefcake: A Very British Sex Symbol on December 27, 2006. He also briefly hosted a five-episode quiz series titled Traitor in February 2004.
National Radio and Regional TV
On January 11, 2010, Livesey expanded his reach by presenting the late-night show on BBC Radio 5 Live. Notably, his broadcast on September 26, 2011, was the first late-night show presented from MediaCity (the BBC's hub in Salford). Over the following years, he served as a stand-in for Victoria Derbyshire and Shelagh Fogarty, and eventually moved to the Weekend Breakfast and weekday Drive programmes in April 2013.
In addition to radio, Livesey spent seven years presenting BBC North West Tonight, where he also deputized for Roger Johnson. His television portfolio included the regional football show Late Kick Off, the regional programme Inside Out, and a one-year stint as the culture reporter for The One Show. He also made guest appearances on popular BBC panel shows such as Have I Got News for You, What The Papers Say, and Never Mind the Buzzcocks.
Career Summary
| Medium | Organization/Programme | Key Role |
|---|---|---|
| Sport Newspapers | Editor-in-Chief & Managing Director | |
| Radio | BBC Radio 5 Live | Late Night, Weekend Breakfast, and Drive Host |
| Radio | BBC Radio Lancashire | Breakfast and Saturday Morning Host |
| Television | BBC North West Tonight | Presenter |
| Television | The One Show | Culture Reporter |
Departure from the BBC
On June 9, 2026, Livesey announced he was stepping back from his BBC Radio 5 Live programme. This followed an investigation by The Times and BBC's Panorama, which alleged that in 1999, Livesey had introduced a woman to David Sullivan, the then-owner of Sport Newspapers. Sullivan had been accused of sexual misconduct by several women, allegations which he denied. Subsequently, on August 3, 2026, it was announced that Livesey had left the BBC entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which newspapers did Livesey manage?
Livesey served as the editor-in-chief and managing director of the Daily Sport and Sunday Sport newspapers during his 18-year tenure with Sport Newspapers.
What book did Livesey write about his journalism career?
He wrote a book titled Babes, Booze, Orgies and Aliens: The Inside Story of Sport Newspapers, published in 1998.
What was Livesey's role at BBC Radio 5 Live?
He presented the late-night show (including the first broadcast from MediaCity), the Weekend Breakfast programme, and the weekday Drive programme.
Which television documentaries did he present?
He presented two BBC Two documentaries: Crumpet: A Very British Sex Symbol (2005) and Beefcake: A Very British Sex Symbol (2006).
Why did Livesey leave the BBC?
Livesey left the broadcaster in August 2026 following an investigation by Panorama and The Times regarding his role in introducing a woman to David Sullivan in 1999.