Heart FM DJ Toby Anstis reveals his 10 most bizarre celeb stories during 25 years on air - from Bruno Mars to Robbie Williams and Lady Gaga

Marking a quarter-century in radio broadcasting, Heart FM’s Toby Anstis has offered a rare glimpse into his most memorable and unusual encounters with global music icons. Having transitioned from television to radio with a longstanding aspiration to become a DJ, Anstis has spent 25 years cultivating a rapport with some of the industry’s most celebrated figures.

Anstis’s journey began with modest regional broadcasts before Heart evolved into the UK’s leading radio network, attracting millions of listeners. His tenure includes hosting mid-morning shows that reached record audiences, followed by a pivotal role in launching Heart Dance, a national station dedicated to dance music where he hosts the breakfast slot, alongside the popular Friday night Club Classics show.

Throughout his career, Anstis has consistently emphasized his passion for music and the unique opportunity to engage with artists across genres. His reflections reveal a deep appreciation for musicians who maintain humility and authenticity amid widespread fame.

Among his standout experiences is working alongside Emma Bunton, affectionately known as Baby Spice, who he describes as remarkably genuine and unaffected despite her star status. Their collaboration on a Saturday morning show early in his Heart career left a lasting impression, highlighting Bunton’s enduring warmth and professionalism.

Anstis’s encounters with Robbie Williams span decades, beginning with early television interviews during the Take That era. The DJ recalls an unplanned on-air visit by Williams at Heart’s studios, where their candid conversation about relationships unfolded spontaneously, illustrating the artist’s approachable nature beyond his public persona.

Bruno Mars also features prominently in Anstis’s recollections, particularly a live intimate performance where Mars, despite exhaustion from a recent tour, delivered an energetic and captivating show. Anstis notes Mars’s exceptional vitality and down-to-earth demeanor, contrasting with the high-energy performances Mars is known for worldwide.

Interviewing Lady Gaga presented a memorable challenge due to a very brief and unconventional session where the singer wore a veil, limiting visibility, and spun continuously in a studio chair. Despite these quirks, Gaga’s friendliness and cool demeanor were evident.

Lionel Richie’s interaction stood out for his remarkable memory and personable approach despite his extensive career and continuous public engagements. Richie’s ability to recall previous meetings and greet Anstis warmly underscored a theme of respect and genuine connection that Anstis finds common among enduring music legends.

Craig David’s return to the UK music scene after years abroad brought a spiritual and grounded presence to Anstis’s interviews, reflecting the singer’s humility and the lasting impact of his early hits. Anstis acknowledges the resilience David showed in overcoming public setbacks while maintaining artistic integrity.

The DJ’s discussions with iconic figures in the electronic music scene, such as Carl Cox and Fatboy Slim, reveal a shared enthusiasm for dance culture and the longevity of their influence. Cox’s youthful energy and continued relevance in Ibiza’s club scene, along with Fatboy Slim’s candid reflections on his past, illustrate the evolving dynamics of music careers over decades.

Anstis’s longstanding relationship with Take That is marked by numerous joint public appearances and deep familiarity, highlighting the band’s evolution and sustained popularity. Similarly, his interview with Kylie Minogue provided insight into her down-to-earth personality despite her global stardom, facilitated by a warm introduction referencing her sister Dannii.

Together, these anecdotes, shared with dailymail.com, paint a portrait of a radio presenter who has not only witnessed but participated in the unfolding stories of modern pop culture. Toby Anstis’s reflections underscore the human side of music stardom, revealing moments of spontaneity, sincerity, and mutual respect that have defined his 25 years on air.