Nick Hewer steps down as Countdown host after 10 years

Presenter was forced to step back from hosting while shielding during lockdown

Nick Hewer has announced that he is leaving Countdown after 10 years as the show’s host.

In November, it was announced that the TV presenter would be taking a temporary break from the show as he shielded during coronavirus lockdown.

However, as filming on the Channel 4 game show started up again, Hewer shared the news on social media on Monday (7 December) that he would be leaving the show for good in 2021.

“Delighted to be back in the Countdown studio after another enforced lockdown, BUT this latest lockdown has given me an opportunity to consider my future life and I’ve decided it’s a good time to step down at the end of my contract in the New Year,” Hewer tweeted.

“As someone in his 77th year, who will be in his 10th year hosting the great British institution that is Countdown, I think it’s time to smell the flowers and get a dog.”

Describing his time on the show as “a privilege and a pleasure”, Hewer went on to praise his co-hosts Susie Dent and Rachel Riley as well as the show’s “loyal viewers”.

“And so, to whoever takes my seat, I wish you every success and hope that you have as much fun and reward as I’ve enjoyed.”

Before his time presenting Countdown, Hewer was best known as one of Lord Alan Sugar’s advisors on The Apprentice.