Question Time’s Fiona Bruce and Richard Osman favourites to replace Jeremy Paxman on University Challenge after he quits

Jeremy Paxman is quitting University Challenge after an impressive run (Picture: BBC)

Jeremy Paxman has announced he’ll be stepping down from University Challenge after 28 years, but who will be taking his place at the helm?

The BBC confirmed that the beloved presenter, who has fronted the treasured quiz show since 1994, will film his last episode this autumn with his final series airing next summer.

‘I’ve had a blast hosting this wonderful series for nearly 29 years,’ Jeremy said of his impressive reign.

‘I’ve been lucky enough to work with an amazing team and to meet some of the swottier brains in the country. It gives me hope for the future.’

It’s almost impossible to imagine a University Challenge without Jeremy, and while the BBC has yet to reveal his replacement we’ve drawn up a list of worthy potential hosts.

Who could replace Jeremy Paxman on University Challenge? Fiona Bruce Fiona Bruce is a firm favourite to replace Jeremy on University Challenge (Picture: BBC)

Question Time presenter Fiona Bruce is a frontrunner among those who could replace Jeremy.

The established journalist, who has been a BBC staple since joining Panorama as a researcher in 1989, became the first full-time female to host topical debate programme, following long-time host David Dimbleby.

She has also presented Antiques Roadshow since 2007, replacing the retiring Michael Aspel.

Could she be next in line to take over University Challenge? Only time will tell.

Richard Osman Fans are crying out for Richard Osman to return to telly (Picture: Rex)

After quitting Pointless in May following his 13-year tenure, viewers have been desperate to have Richard Osman return to TV.

He was an early favourite to replace Anne Robinson on Countdown and now he’s one of the bookies favourites to take over Jeremy on University Challenge.

However, Richard previously said that he was stepping back from presenting Pointless to focus on his writing.

While fans are keen to see him back on the small screen, it seems unlikely he’ll be taking on a massive new role… but we live in hope.

Richard Ayoade Richard Ayoade is no stranger to hosting a TV show, could University Challenge be next? (Picture: Rex)

Richard Ayoade would be a fantastic candidate to front University Challenge given his impressive presenting credentials.

Having hosted The Crystal Maze over on Channel 4 for 45 episodes, as well as the Baftas in 2020 and 2021, he’s established himself as a sharp and witty entertainer.

Now it’s been confirmed that Richard won’t be taking over Jodie Whittaker as the next Doctor after heavy speculation, perhaps he’ll be heading over to University Challenge.

Dara O Briain Dara O Briain has fronted Mock The Week for the past 17 years (Picture: BBC)

Following Mock The Week’s cancellation after 17 years on the BBC, comedian Dara O Briain is likely on the hunt for an exciting new presenting job – and University Challenge could be it.

Dara hosted Mock The Week for 21 seasons and more than 200 episodes, along with series regular Hugh Dennis, so he’s no stranger to commitment.

With the comedy show ending in just a matter of weeks, now could be the perfect time for Dara to transition to University Challenge.

Who could replace Jeremy Paxman on University Challenge?

Bookies Betfair name Fiona Bruce as the favourite to replace Jeremy Paxman on University Challenge.

Betfair spokesperson Sam Rosbottom said: ‘Fiona Bruce is the 2/1 favourite to be the next University Challenge host after it was announced Jeremy Paxman will be stepping down after 28 years.

‘Pointless co-presenter Richard Osman follows behind Bruce at 3/1, while Clive Myrie is 5/1. Other contenders include Professor Brian Cox at 13/2, with Richard Ayoade and Dara O Briain both 9/1.’

Fiona Bruce: 2/1

Richard Osman: 3/1

Clive Myrie: 5/1

Professor Brian Cox: 13/2

Richard Ayoade: 9/1

Dara O Briain: 9/1

June Sarpong: 12/1

University Challenge airs Monday 29 August on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer.

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