**Jermaine Jenas Excluded from ITV’s Soccer Aid Line-Up Following Recent Scandal**
BBC presenter and former Premier League footballer Jermaine Jenas has been notably absent from this year’s Soccer Aid coverage on ITV, as his off-screen controversies continue to affect his broadcasting career. Once a familiar face on both BBC and ITV sport programmes, Jenas now finds himself on the outside of the football charity spectacle, an event he had previously supported as a key figure.
The 41-year-old’s fall from grace began in August last year, when the BBC terminated his contract following allegations of inappropriate behaviour in the workplace. According to reports, an internal investigation concluded that Jenas had sent unsuitable messages to female colleagues, prompting his immediate removal from presenting duties on flagship programmes such as The One Show and as a pundit for BBC Sport.
In the aftermath, Jenas faced further professional setbacks. Not only did his split from the BBC become headline news, but his representation with his agency, MC Saatchi, also came to an end. Moreover, Formula E decided to move forward without him in their presenter line-up. These departures signalled a striking shift for the former England and club star, who had become an established presence in sport media after retiring from professional football.
For several years prior to the scandal, Jenas had teamed up with Maya Jama and other high-profile presenters on ITV’s Soccer Aid, an annual charity event that brings celebrities and football legends together to raise funds for UNICEF. This year, however, ITV has opted for caution. The station, keen to keep its charitable event in the spotlight for the right reasons, has entrusted presenting duties to Dermot O’Leary and Alex Scott. This duo will host the much-anticipated England versus Rest of the World clash at Old Trafford, with the channel pointedly excluding Jenas from any involvement.
Channel insiders have reportedly told the media that ITV’s decision was based on a desire to avoid unwanted publicity. The broadcaster, while maintaining a cordial relationship with Jenas, appears determined to shield Soccer Aid from distraction. The event is known for its positive spirit and focus on fundraising, with this year’s football management featuring the likes of Wayne Rooney and Tyson Fury.
Despite the professional and personal turmoil, Jenas has not abandoned broadcasting entirely. After a period away from the spotlight, he returned to football commentary with a guest appearance on talkSPORT in February. Addressing his listeners during his comeback, Jenas appeared contrite. “The biggest thing in all of this is taking responsibility,” he reflected. “You have to look at the reasons you end up in a situation like this. Once you face those realities, you can work on yourself and your future.”
In the midst of his professional troubles, Jenas has also encountered change in his personal life. This March, his long-term partner Ellie Penfold announced publicly that the couple had separated, ending their 16-year relationship. Together, they share four children. Penfold, who took to social media to confirm the split, expressed hope for privacy, stressing their commitment to co-parenting and remaining friends during what she called a “challenging time”.
Jenas originally rose to prominence as a top-tier midfielder, representing England and a host of Premier League clubs, before pivoting to media work after hanging up his boots. His subsequent broadcasting career, praised for its insight and relatability, had flourished prior to the scandal.
Reflecting on this dramatic series of events, many in the industry have noted both the fragility of public-facing careers and the enduring scrutiny attached to high-profile figures. ITV’s decision to move ahead with Soccer Aid without Jenas is seen as part of a broader trend within British broadcasting, emphasising tighter standards in workplace conduct.
As this year’s charity match unfolds, attention will turn once again to the good causes at its heart. Meanwhile, the next chapter of Jermaine Jenas’ career—and personal life—remains uncertain, with observers waiting to see whether redemption in the public eye is possible.