BBC presenter Mark Chapman has been a mainstay of the channel’s World Cup coverage this summer
BBC star Mark Chapman is one of the broadcaster’s most recognisable and reliable presenters. The 52-year-old will take on hosting duties for the Beeb when England face Argentina in a huge World Cup semi-final on Wednesday evening.
It’s been a long and arduous road for Chapman to reach the pinnacle of sports broadcasting after joining the BBC in 1996. Following Gary Lineker’s exit from Match of the Day after 26 years, Chapman, alongside Kelly Cates and Gabby Logan, stepped into the breach.
Off-screen, Chapman has suffered tragedy. His wife, Sara, died at the age of 44 from cancer in 2020. The couple were married for 19 years and had three children together.
‘Chappers’ is known for his depth of sporting knowledge and his down-to-earth demeanour. He once claimed that he would “prefer a pint” at his local than engage in the celebrity circles he finds himself in thanks to his high-profile role.
With Chapman set to take centre stage once again on Wednesday night, Mirror Football takes a look at what the presenter’s BBC colleagues really think of him.
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK! Latest news, analysis and much more on Mirror Football’s Facebook page
Ian Dennis
Chapman made an emotional return to work in July 2020, just a mere month after his partner’s death. His colleague at Radio 5 Live, Ian Dennis, paid tribute to him and revealed just how highly Chapman is considered amongst his peers.
He said: “Mark, I must say, and I know you don’t want a fuss, and I know you don’t want it to be about you, but equally I know how much you are admired and respected, not just from the rest of our colleagues, but many, many listeners and indeed viewers last night on the TV. It’s great to have you back.”
Kelly Cates
TV host Cates, who is the daughter of Liverpool legend Sir Kenny Dalglish, has huge respect for Chapman. She has previously praised the attributes that make him one of the UK’s most-loved sports anchors.
“I think he is the absolute best,” the former Sky Sports host said. “He covers every sport with the same level of knowledge and interest, making everything seem worth watching or listening to. He uses what he knows to ask the right question rather than back up his own opinion.”
Danny Murphy
Ex-Liverpool midfielder Murphy has been working for the BBC as a pundit and commentator since 2013. He was in no doubt who should succeed Lineker when his tenure as Match of the Day host came to an end, hailing Chapman’s qualities.
“I feel that they’ve got [a candidate],” Murphy told Kick Off on talkSPORT. “Mark Chapman, who I work with a lot on Sundays.
“I think he’s a brilliant presenter and very, very knowledgeable on sport and football. Somebody who is ready-made for it… he would be the glaring, obvious choice for me.”
Nedum Onuoha
Ex-Manchester City star Nedum Onuoha has previously lauded Chapman after the duo worked together on BBC 5 Live show, Planet Premier League.
“He’s somebody that knows the game very well, is deeply passionate about it and is very good at providing a space where all the different pundits and people involved feel comfortable,” he said.
“He tries to get the best out of you. He is very good at being able to create a show that’s enjoyable, and I think that goes a long way in punditry.
“He knows that laughing brings people together, as opposed to arguing about things that honestly don’t really matter. His personality is a great one, he’s fun to be around and that can really make a difference, especially for new people entering the industry.”
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
England’s 2026 World Cup kits
Various Prices
Kitbag
Buy Now on Kitbag
England and Nike have launched the new home, away and goalkeeper kits to be worn at this summer’s FIFA World Cup. You can get free delivery on all orders with the code DEAL.
