Mark Dolan’s Bold Move: "I Can Do More Here Than I Could
- Key Takeaway 1: Mark Dolan’s departure from GB News highlights the growing appeal of independent and alternative platforms for broadcasters seeking more freedom.
- Key Takeaway 2: His statement reflects a broader trend where media personalities are moving away from traditional networks to digital spaces for better audience engagement and control.
- Key Takeaway 3: The rise of podcasts and online video is changing how people consume news, with younger audiences preferring social media over TV.
- Key Takeaway 4: Independent journalism is on the up, offering opportunities for direct monetization and unfiltered voices in a shifting media landscape.
- Key Takeaway 5: Dolan’s journey shows that embracing change can lead to new success, inspiring others in the industry.
Introduction
Have you ever felt stuck in a job where you couldn't fully express yourself? That's what seems to have happened to Mark Dolan, the British broadcaster known for his sharp wit and no-nonsense style. In December 2024, after being let go from GB News, he made a bold statement in a YouTube video: "I can do more here than I could do over there, so watch me go." This simple sentence sparked a lot of talk. What did he mean by "here" and "over there"? Was it a dig at his old bosses, or a sign of exciting new plans?
Mark Dolan has been a big name in UK media for years. Born in London in 1974, he started as a stand-up comedian before hitting the big time with TV shows like Balls of Steel on Channel 4. That show, running from 2005 to 2008, was full of wild pranks and bold experiments that made people laugh and think. Dolan wasn't afraid to push boundaries, blending humour with real-life issues. After that, he did documentaries like The World’s...And me, where he met all sorts of unusual people, from the shortest man alive to those with extreme body art.
His move into radio and news came later. In 2019, he joined talkRADIO, hosting shows on politics and culture. He was direct and challenged popular ideas, which won him fans. Then, in 2021, he switched to GB News, a new channel aiming to be different from the BBC or Sky News. There, he hosted Mark Dolan Tonight, talking about free speech, political correctness, and media bias without holding back.
But things changed in December 2024. GB News decided to end his contract as part of a big shake-up. Dolan said it wasn't his choice – he was fired, and it happened quickly. In his video, he thanked the team and said he made lifelong friends, but he also hinted at frustrations. He mentioned standing in for Dan Wootton after Wootton's exit, which he called a "huge loss" to the channel. Despite some tension – Wootton once called him a "b***h" – Dolan was grateful for the start.
So, what was this "bold move"? Dolan announced he was starting his own show on YouTube, called The Mark Dolan Show. It launched on 10 January 2025, promising to be "uncensored and unapologetic." He vowed to "name and shame" and even said he'd help "save Britain" from what he saw as bad policies under the Labour government. This was his way of taking control, free from network rules. But the story didn't stop there. By August 2025, Dolan joined TalkTV, a rival channel, hosting a new show called The Political Asylum from Monday to Thursday evenings. TalkTV, part of the same group as talkRADIO, gave him a fresh platform. Recent clips show him back on air, discussing hot topics like politics and culture with his usual energy. His X (formerly Twitter) account is buzzing with posts from his shows, and fans are praising his monologues. This move fits into bigger changes in media. Traditional TV viewership in the UK has fallen by over 25% in the last decade, while online streaming and podcasts have boomed. In 2025, 41% of Brits listen to podcasts weekly, up from last year. Young people, especially 18-30s, are reading more digital content and trusting social media news more. Dolan's shift shows how broadcasters are adapting to this.Why does this matter? It's not just about one man. It's about freedom in the media. At GB News, even though it calls itself a "people's channel," there are still rules from regulators like Ofcom. Dolan might have felt limited. Now, on TalkTV and his own channels, he can speak more freely. His story is like others – Piers Morgan left Good Morning Britain and started Uncensored, Tucker Carlson went independent after Fox, and Joe Rogan built a huge podcast empire.
In this post, we'll dive deep into Dolan's career, decode his statement, look at media trends, and see what the future holds. We'll use facts, stats, and examples to show why this bold move could inspire many. If you're into media, politics, or just curious about change, keep reading.
Mark Dolan’s Career Trajectory: A Brief Overview
From Comedy to Commentary
Mark Dolan started his journey in entertainment as a comedian. He performed stand-up in clubs before getting his big break on TV. Balls of Steel was a hit because it was daring – pranks that tested social norms and made viewers uncomfortable in a fun way. Dolan hosted it with flair, showing he could handle chaos.
After that, he explored documentaries. In The World’s...And I, he travelled to meet odd characters. One episode featured the world's tallest woman, and another featured extreme eaters. These shows mixed laughs with real stories, proving Dolan could do more than just jokes.
The TalkRADIO and GB News Years
In 2019, Dolan joined talkRADIO. He hosted weekend slots, talking about news and opinions. His style – honest and challenging – fit the station's vibe. Listeners liked how he tackled tough topics like Brexit or cancel culture.
Then came GB News in 2021. The channel launched as an alternative to mainstream news, promising balanced views. Dolan's show, Mark Dolan Tonight, aired weekends from 9-11pm. He discussed free speech and government issues, often with guests who sparked debates. Ratings were good; one episode beat Sky and BBC News.
But in December 2024, it ended. GB News reshuffled, axing shows due to low views or costs. Others, like Isabel Webster, left too. Dolan broke the silence on YouTube, saying he was fired nicely, but it escalated fast.
Decoding Dolan’s Statement: What Does It Really Mean?
Dolan's words – "I can do more here than I could do over there" – are intriguing. "Over there" is GB News, "here" started as his YouTube show, then TalkTV.
1. Unshackling Creative Constraints
Networks have rules. Even GB News follows Ofcom guidelines on balance and language. Dolan might have felt censored on some topics. Going independent lets him say what he wants. His new show promises "hardcore opposition" to policies he dislikes.
Examples:
- Piers Morgan: Left ITV after Meghan Markle row, now uncensored on TalkTV.
- Tucker Carlson: After Fox, his X show gets millions of views.
- Joe Rogan: His podcast has 11 million listeners per episode, free from TV limits.
2. Shifting Audience Demographics
People watch less TV. Ofcom says traditional viewership dropped 25% in 10 years. Digital is rising: 65% use social video for news, up from 52% in 2020.
3. Alignment with Personal Values and Editorial Integrity
Dolan cares about free speech and bias. If GB News limited him, leaving makes sense. His new role lets him align work with beliefs.
Case Study: Ramesh in India – A teacher frustrated with schools started YouTube tutorials, reaching 1M subscribers. Like him, Dolan expanded his impact online before TV returned.
What Does This Mean for the Future of Media?
1. The Rise of Independent Journalism
Independent media is growing. Social media overtook TV as the top news source in some places. In the UK, nearly half listened to podcasts weekly.
Platforms like Substack, Rumble, and X let creators own content. Dolan’s YouTube start is part of this exodus.
Stats:
- Video podcasts: 51% watched one recently.
2. The Power Shift from Corporations to Creators
Creators now rival networks. Ben Shapiro’s Daily Wire beats CNN online. MrBeast gets more views than the BBC. Lex Fridman interviews leaders, podcasts can't.
Dolan on TalkTV shows hybrids work – TV with digital freedom.
Data:
- 59% podcast listeners are at home.
3. Monetization & Sustainability of Independent Ventures
How to earn? Subscriptions (Patreon), ads (YouTube), merch, lives.
For Dolan:
- YouTube ads and subs.
- TalkTV salary plus online.
- Potential books or tours.
Tips:
- Build an email list for direct fans.
- Collaborate for reach.
- Use SEO for visibility.
Conclusion
Mark Dolan’s bold move – saying "I can do more here than I could" after leaving GB News – marks a new chapter. From comedy to commentary, his career shows adaptability. Starting on YouTube, then joining TalkTV, he embraced independence while returning to TV. This reflects media shifts: declining TV, rising digital, and more creator power.
Key lessons: ✅ Embrace change for growth. ✅ Seek autonomy for impact. ✅ Connect directly with audiences.
What’s next for Dolan? His TalkTV show is thriving, with strong viewer feedback. For you, think about your career – is it time for a bold move?
What do you think? Will independent platforms dominate? Share in comments, subscribe for more media insights!
Citations:
Suggested Internal Links:
- Piers Morgan's Uncensored Journey
- The Rise of Podcasts in UK Media
- Free Speech in Modern Broadcasting
Authoritative External Sources:
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