Graham Norton to leave as host of BBC Radio 2 series after 10 years

Irish comedian took over hosting duties from Jonathan Ross a decade ago

The BBC has announced that Graham Norton will leave his weekly show on BBC Radio 2 before the end of the year.

The presenter, who has hosted the series for a decade, will continue to front his weekly BBC One chat show, as well as presenting Drag Race UK and commentating on the Eurovision Song Contest.

Norton’s last show will broadcast on 19 December, 2020.

The Irish comedian remarked that he is “sad to be stepping away” from the role, and will “miss the listeners and their lives”.

There has so far been no announcement regarding who will replace Norton in his former Saturday morning time slot.

Norton began hosting the Radio 2 series in 2010, taking over from Jonathan Ross following the presenter’s split with the BBC.

“Obviously I’m sad to be stepping away from my Radio 2 show,” said Norton.

“I’ll miss being a part of the Wogan House family, as well as the listeners and their lives. I'd like to thank my producer Malcolm Prince and all the teams I’ve worked with for a great decade of radio.”

Charlotte Moore, the chief content officer for the Beeb, said Norton would be “hugely missed”.

“He is a first class broadcaster but I’m thrilled he’s committed to continuing to be a regular fixture on the BBC,” she added.