Colin Murray has been confirmed as the permanent host of Countdown after serving as the show’s temporary host.
Last summer, the radio and television host was identified as one of the candidates to take over the Channel 4 show from Anne Robinson, who helmed it for a year.
Fans adored Colin’s performance on the show, so many will be overjoyed to learn he’s staying for good.
Announcing the news on Steph’s Packed Lunch on Wednesday, the 45-year-old said: ‘It’s a career dream to be named as permanent anchor of one of television’s most iconic programmes.
‘I have been a fan since day one, been part of the family for over a decade, appearing on Dictionary Corner, and now I get the honour of guiding it into a fifth decade.’
Colin stressed that he doesn’t just want Countdown ‘survive’, but also wants it to ‘thrive’.
‘During my caretaker stint we’ve seen more people tune back in, with close to a million [0.9m] watching the series final in December, and I want that to just be the beginning,’ he stated.
‘Countdown is a special show, and its stars will always be the letters and the numbers, but it’s more than that,’ he continued.
‘Great afternoon company for people of all ages from all across the UK. Rachel, Susie and I are very excited for the year ahead. If you haven’t watched in a while, drop by and join us. Everyone is welcome.’
Jo Street, Channel 4’s Head of Daytime and Features, said in a statement: ‘We have listened to the fans. Many have written in to let us know how much they love Colin on the show, and so I am delighted to be able to confirm that he is staying in the hotseat alongside lexicographer Susie Dent and maths whiz Rachel Riley MBE.’
Peter Gwyn, executive producer at Lifted Entertainment, added: ‘We are thrilled that Colin is our new permanent host.
‘His boundless energy, infectious humour and genuine love for the programme have really struck a chord with our viewers, and he, Rachel and Susie are the perfect team to take this iconic show into the future.’
Several viewers have celebrated the news of Colin’s appointment, with one tweeting: ‘The man’s a natural, congratulations @ColinMurray, great way to start the year!’
Another wrote: ‘Yeaaaay! Colin Murray to be permanent host of Countdown!! So, so pleased!’
Countdown airs on weekdays at 2.10pm on Channel 4.
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