FOR over nine years he was the reason we tuned into the BBC Asian Network, but for Adil Ray the future is now his to explore. When he announced his decision to leave the station back in April, there was genuine shock. But Adil fans, fret not. With news of a potential TV series coming up, Adil is gearing up for a comeback!
Zeenat Moosa caught up with Adil for a quick chat…
You were at the BBC Asian Network for over nine years. Why the decision to leave?
I felt it was a good time for me to concentrate on other projects. Not many people get a chance to work in TV comedy for the BBC. I was very fortunate to work on Bellamy's People, led by Bafta winners Paul Whitehouse and Charlie Higson. My characters Mr. Khan, MC Raa and Guru Dev went down well. As a result I have been asked to develop my own series.It's very early stages and there are no guarantees but it's very exciting and just the challenge I needed. It was due to my time at Asian Network that any of this has been possible.
What made you choose radio as opposed to the stereotypical, conventional Asian careers of Medicine, Law or accountancy?
I wasn't that clever then. I am now, of course.
What has been your best memory from your time on the station?
The last show. I really don't store too many memories like that. You have to move on in life not go back. The last show with Imran Khan and such heart-warming emails and texts made me choke up.
You've conducted many interviews in your time but which would say is your best?
Imran Khan, the former cricketer. Twice I interviewed and he was very open about Jemima, growing up and his faith. I think I love him.
Staying with the interviews, who has been the most awkward person that you have ever interviewed? I mean someone that you were interviewing and they were just making it so hard for you and not answering any of your questions?
Can I have another question?!
There is a lot of debate surrounding the possible closure of the BBC Asian Network Radio. What’s your take on it all?
We have to see what happens. I wish all at the station and the listeners the best. I was lucky to have some of my best days there and gain record listeners throughout my nine years. It will always be very precious to me.
What do you say to those who think keeping the Radio open is a waste of money? It has after all had millions of pounds thrown at it over the last few years.
I say Jay Sean, Mr. Khan, Shah Rukh, Dev Patel, coverage of 7/7, documentaries on honour killings, around 7 different language shows, Nikki Bedi, Bobby Friction would never have been heard like they did. I doubt any other station could have achieved all of that.
You’ve championed British Asian artists like Jay Sean throughout his career. How hard do you think it is it for British Asians to break into the Media Industry?
It's not easy. Nothing in life is, whoever you are.
Your message to those trying to get into the media industry?
Focus. Aim big but go small. Go to the smallest radio station near your house and offer to work for free. Try again. Again, and again. Then you'll get your chance to make tea. Then buy the biscuits. I worked for next to nothing for 5 years until I got a full time job in radio.
When will we be seeing more or hearing more from Adil Ray?
My website
www.adilray.com is the best way to keep up with what I am doing. I am busy developing and writing a comedy show for TV. I will also be featuring on BBC Radio 5 Lives cricket coverage this summer. I love cricket so to host two phone ins (July 17 and 24th) and some other special programmes will be a real pleasure. I just hope Pakistan give the Aussies and the England boys a good fight. I will be wearing green whilst on Five live that's for sure.
Mr. Khan will also be on Five Live. Every Saturday morning with Gethin Jones giving us his lowdown on the cricket and anything else he thinks we ought to know!