Ore Oduba

Ore Oduba is a British television and radio presenter, actor, and speaker whose career spans nearly two decades across major UK broadcasting platforms. A graduate of Loughborough University with a degree in sports science and social science, Oduba began his presenting career at BBC children's program "Newsround" as a reporter and breakfast bulletin presenter. He was later promoted to deputy presenter and subsequently presented the main Newsround bulletin. Oduba's career in children's television led to roles with BBC Breakfast and BBC Sport, where he hosted "Match of the Day Kickabout" and reported on major sporting events, including the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, the Youth Olympics in Nanjing, and the Rio Olympics for BBC.

Oduba gained national recognition as a contestant on "Strictly Come Dancing," where he and partner Joanne Clifton were crowned champions in a widely viewed final. Their performances, including an American Smooth to "Singin' in the Rain" and a jive to "Runaway Baby" by Bruno Mars, received high praise and top scores from the judges. Oduba was the first recipient of the Inspirational Public Figure Award at the Ethnicity Awards and has received honorary doctorates from both Loughborough University and Bournemouth University.

Oduba has presented significant national events, including the Queen's 90th Birthday celebrations, BBC Sport's coverage of the Olympic Games in Rio, and "One Love Manchester" for BBC One. He delivered a Gene Kelly tribute on Children in Need and performed at the Royal Albert Hall for the Christmas with the Stars Concert in aid of Bloodwise. Oduba has hosted shows such as ITV's "This Morning" and BBC's "The One Show," and has presented live coverage of events including the Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

Expanding into musical theatre, Oduba starred in the UK tour of "Grease" and appeared in "Curtains the Musical" alongside Jason Manford before making his West End debut. He has toured with "Pretty Woman" and played Brad Majors in the 50th anniversary production of "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" at London's Peacock Theatre, as well as Aaron Fox in "Curtains." Oduba also appeared as news anchor Akintola in the BBC One drama "Noughts + Crosses," adapted from the novels by Malorie Blackman.

Oduba is recognized for his advocacy on addiction, trauma, suicide, and mental health, drawing on personal experience to engage audiences. He has spoken publicly about his journey with addiction and recovery, including appearances on Paul C Brunson's "We Need To Talk" podcast. Oduba now works to protect children from harmful online content and encourages open conversations about mental health, establishing himself as a prominent voice in British broadcasting and mental health advocacy.