The presenter’s departure from Match of the Day reveals a welcome shift at the BBC, but fame worship lingers

Is the age of the megastar fading at the BBC? It is possible to read too much into Gary Lineker’s retirement, which has dominated headlines. Some have wondered if this heralds a general ousting of “the woke” from public life – Lineker was famous for his outspoken “lefty” views. Others reckon the decision stems from an outbreak of tall poppy syndrome; the public were jealous and hounded him out.

Lineker himself has hinted that his move has something to do with upcoming changes to Match of the Day. But Lineker is also remarkable for his salary, about £1.35m a year, making him the corporation’s highest earner. Will his successor be paid as much? It’s unlikely.