BBC Radio 2 presenter Ken Bruce has confirmed when he'll be leaving the station. The 71-year-old, whose PopMaster quiz is a show staple, announced he'd be quitting after 31 years in January.
Ken has hosted the current iteration of his show since 1992 and prior to that, had worked at the BBC since 1978. The broadcaster is leaving to move to rival station Greatest Hits Radio.
Following his announcement, many fans of Ken have been wondering when his final show will be so they can be sure to tune in, and, in a recent update, the presenter announced he would be leaving Radio 2 sooner than expected.
Read more: Ken Bruce says BBC Radio 2 wants him to leave early as he confirms departure date
Here's everything you need to know about Ken Bruce's departure, from his exit announcement to his leaving date and replacement.
When is Ken Bruce leaving BBC Radio 2?
In a Twitter statement shared on Friday, February 24, Ken told his 141k followers: "I will be presenting my last show on Radio 2 next Friday. I had intended fulfilling my contract until the end of March but the BBC has decided it wants me to leave earlier. Let's enjoy the week ahead!"
In response to Ken's statement, a BBC spokesperson told WalesOnline: "Ken decided to leave Radio 2 and it's always been known he’s leaving in March. Returning to Wogan House for a week after a month of broadcasting the Piano Room sessions at Maida Vale provided a natural break. We wish Ken all the best for the future."
This means Ken's last show will be broadcast on Friday, March 3.
Why is Ken quitting BBC Radio 2?
Ken is leaving to move to Greatest Hits Radio. Explaining his decision to leave at the start of the year, Ken said: "It's been a tremendously happy time for me: I've made many friends and worked with many wonderful colleagues. However, I feel that after 45 years of full-time broadcasting on BBC Radio it's time for a change.
"I would stress that this is entirely my decision but some new opportunities have come up and I would like to continue my career in a slightly different way in the next few years, the details of which will be revealed shortly. I will always be very proud of my association with the BBC and Radio 2 in particular and I'd like to thank everyone who has helped to make the mid-morning show a success."
Ken Bruce joins Greatest Hits Radio from April 3.
Who is Ken Bruce's replacement?
Vernon Kay will replace Ken on BBC Radio 2. Vernon said: "I'm absolutely over the moon to be handed the microphone to present the mid-morning show on Radio 2, and what an honour to follow in the footsteps of the mighty Ken Bruce.
"I look forward to playing some of the best music in the world whilst in the company of the Radio 2 listeners who I feel I've got to know over the last 18 months. It’s a dream come true to join the Radio 2 family and I can’t wait to start." You can read more on this here. For more showbiz and television stories get our newsletter here.
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