On Tuesday, January 17, radio fans across the country were left heartbroken as popular presenter and DJ Ken Bruce announced that he'd be leaving BBC Radio 2. He has hosted the current iteration of his show since 1992 and prior to that, had worked at the BBC since 1978.
Ken's Radio 2 show currently includes daily quiz, PopMaster, which is very popular with listeners. Prior to this, it included other competitions such as Spin It to Win It and Words Don't Come Easily, although these were dropped in 2007 following a phone-in scandal. PopMaster returned in early 2008.
While Ken's replacement has yet to be announced, his future as already been decided and he is set to move to a rival station in April. But why has he decided to leave, how old is Ken, what is his new job and will PopMaster leave with him? Here's everything you need to know.
Why is Ken Bruce leaving Radio 2?
Ken explained his decision to leave, saying: "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."
How old is Ken Bruce?
Ken is 71 years old. He lives with his third wife Kerith near Thame, Oxfordshire.
What is Ken Bruce's new job?
Following his departure from BBC Radio 2, it has since been announced that Ken will be joining Greatest Hits Radio. Speaking about his new show, he said, "What better way to celebrate my forty-five years in radio than with a new adventure and a brand-new show on Greatest Hits Radio."
Playing the biggest songs from the '70s, '80s and '90s, Greatest Hits Radio is a station that celebrates the good times. With music from the most iconic artists of all time, including Blondie, Queen, George Michael, Madonna, Fleetwood Mac, David Bowie, Elton John and Whitney Houston, it is home to presenters including Martin Kemp, Pat Sharp, Kate Thornton, Paul Gambaccini, Andy Crane and Jenny Powell.
Ben Cooper, chief content & music officer, Bauer Audio UK said, “Ken Bruce is a broadcasting legend, with the biggest radio show in the UK, so as well as today being an exciting announcement for Greatest Hits Radio and its growing audience, it is a hugely significant moment for the industry. What a fantastic start to a great year of increased ambition and innovation for Bauer Media Audio.”
What will happen to PopMaster?
A statement from Greatest Hits Radio has confirmed that PopMaster will be joining Ken in his move. Ken said of this: "There will still be PopMaster, me and my musings and all the great records you know and love from the 70s, 80s and 90s. I’m looking forward to getting started and to you joining me for my very first show. See you in April!" For more showbiz and television stories get our newsletter here.
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