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TALENTED: Amfo is said to be 'happy' with this new gig.

BBC RADIO 1 DJ Clara Amfo will replace Reggie Yates on BBC One's Top of the Pops Christmas and New Year specials.

As of this Monday, Yates stepped down from the shows after making "ill-considered remarks" in the Halfcast Podcast, hosted by DJ Chuckie Lothian.

The presenter said it was “great” to see music artists who are no longer managed by “some random fat Jewish guy from north west London”. His remark sparked an immediate backlash, with online commenters accusing the 34-year-old of anti-Semitism. Yates tweeted to apologise "unreservedly to the Jewish community", stating that his words "reinforced offensive stereotypes" and was "no reflection on how I truly feel".

The personality has co-hosted the festive shows alongside Fearne Cotton for 13 years, but his place will now be taken by dynamic broadcaster Amfo who hosts Radio 1's mid-morning programme.

"I'm so happy and honoured to be presenting Top of the Pops alongside Fearne," she said in a statement.

"It's an iconic show that I've grown up with and continue to enjoy watching, especially during the festive season. 2017 has been a rich year in pop and I can't wait to celebrate it with the artists, Fearne and everyone at home."

The Christmas Day edition will feature stars including Ed Sheeran, James Arthur and Rita Ora with acts such as Craig David and Paloma Faith slated for the New Year special.

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