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Wales Online
Wales Online
Lifestyle
Rose Hill & Megan Nisbet

Anne Robinson's Countdown summer replacement confirmed as TV favourite

Les Dennis has announced he'll be stepping in to host Countdown for a short stint this summer. The television favourite, who hosted Family Fortunes from 1987 until 2002, will take over the reigns in August as a guest presenter.

Countdown is currently being hosted by Colin Murray, who is filling in until the end of the season after Anne Robinson announced she was quitting the show in May.

Sharing the news on social media, Les wrote: "From 4th August until 15th I shall be hosting the iconic @C4Countdown. It is such an honour. Hope you enjoy."

Read more: Carol Vorderman grilled over Countdown return after Anne Robinson's exit

Les has entertained British families for almost five decades on screen, but is best known for hosting Family Fortunes, reports The Mirror. He went on to star as ill-fated Michael Rodwell in Coronation Street, during which his character wed Gail Platt before suffering a grisly death in front of serial killer Pat Phelan.

He also appeared on Ricky Gervais' Extras and is starring in Only Fools and Horses musical as grandad.

The Weakest Link host Anne stepped down from the role of Countdown host in May, after just a year in the post, replacing Nick Hewer in 2021.

Les Dennis (David M. Benett/Dave Benett/Getty Images)

BBC Radio 5 Live presenter Colin has since taken on the role of stand-in host until the end of the year joining Countdown regulars Susie Dent and Rachel Riley. But in a brief stint next month, former soap star Les, will be taking over the reigns. For more showbiz and television stories get our newsletter here.

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