BBC Radio 2 fans ‘gutted’ after Ken Bruce announcement and ask ‘what’s the point?’

Ken Bruce will be leaving BBC Radio 2 after 31 years of hosting its weekday mid-morning show.

The long-time presenter will now join Greatest Hits Radio, leaving behind the most listened-to show on British radio. It comes after Steve Wright left as the station’s afternoon host following 23 years in the role.

Ken is the newest presenter among many others who have left the station in the previous year including Paul O’Grady and Vanessa Feltz. He announced his leave while live on the air.

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He said: “I have decided the time is right for me to move on from Radio 2.” He added: “I’ll reach the end of my current contract in March, and so at that point, I will be moving on from Radio 2. Nothing stays the same forever…

“I have been here for quite a long time now, and it possibly is time to move over and let somebody else have a go.”

His segment, which became known for its daily Popmaster quiz, held more than 8.5 million listeners a week, according to Rajar. He first joined the BBC in 1977 and became the regular host of Radio 2 in 1984.

The 71-year-old added: “I really must stress that this is entirely my decision, however, some new opportunities have come up and I would like to continue my career in just a slightly different way if that is possible in the next few years.

“In the meantime, I will always be tremendously proud of my association with the BBC and in particular with Radio 2.” He will remain at the station until the end of March, he said.

However, Ken’s extensive period as a presenter has garnered a wide range of fans who will be sad to see him go. One social media user reacting to the news said: “Absolutely gutted to hear Ken Bruce is leaving Radio 2 for Greatest Hits Radio, end of an era.”

Another user wrote: “Gutted to hear Ken Bruce is leaving Radio 2. Highlight of my morning at work is listening to Ken. He’s so genuine, kind, funny and well…just lovely. Guess I’ll have to follow him to Greatest Hits UK, ta’ra BBC Radio 2.”

A third user wrote: “Ken Bruce leaving BBC Radio 2 gutted my favourite show! What is the point now all the good ones will be gone?” A fourth said: “So Ken Bruce is leaving Radio 2, no point in listening anymore.”

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