The broadcaster, 67, took to the Radio 2 airwaves one last time earlier today . . Hello everyone! Paul O'Grady and Steve Wright. The decision . He has made it his own and he is an absolute legend of broadcasting. Olga often used to visit Radio 2 to see what Paul was doing; she was seldom impressed. Not going anywhere!" OGrady, 67, said that Radio 2 was always for an older audience. On Monday, Paul gave insight into the fact his show was being taken off the air for more than three months stating that the decision was not his idea. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express. In my version shes a bit raggy. In need of constant stimulation, he struggled to thrive without human contact while he was confined to his farm in Kent. The format was originally devised by Granada Television and was broadcast on ITV until December 2005, before moving to . 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Paul OGrady has expressed his disappointment with BBC Radio 2, saying its not what it was. But this week it was announced that Paul will be absent for the next 13 weeks and that his show will now only run for 13 week seasons at a time. The veteran TV presenter went on to admit he "wasn't really happy" with controversial changes at the BBC station - including sharing his show on a '13 weeks on, 13 weeks off' basis with comedian Rob Beckett. The comedian, 67, has hosted a Sunday afternoon programme on the UKs most popular radio station for the last 14 years. 2-min read. I know youre not supposed to but I like working with kids. Im not good in hotels. At conservative gathering, Trump is still the favourite. Another exclaimed: Brilliant news, Boom is a growing station and #TeamPOGradio will fit in well, please let this be first of many specials., A third wrote: Wonderful news, put a smile on my face on a gloomy Monday morning.. Youve already lost @GrahamNortonFan and now this. He is certainly not wrong there. Previously: Graham Norton/Alan Carr & Melanie Sykes/Elaine Paige/TheVictoriaWoodSongbook. Paul O'Grady has revealed the real reason he's quit his BBC Radio 2 show, after presenting it for 14 years. Liz, 64, worked with BBC on a number of its radio stations before she was sacked from her show on BBC Radio 6 after working for the BBC for 35 years. It was then announced Ken would be swapping the BBC for Bauer at the end of March, as it was revealed he would joining Greatest Hits Radio. Some healthy competition will, in the long run, make Radio 2 a better station. For over 14 years, the 67-year-old had been hosting the Sunday afternoon show before a shift saw him routinely switching with . You can unsubscribe at any time. He tweeted last week: "I will be presenting my last show on Radio 2 next Friday. Show More Posts from paulogrady. During that time he met a woman named Diane Jansen with whom he had a brief affair. 15 Aug 2022. Born on June 14, 1955 in Birkenhead, before he hit the big time, TV star Paul O' Grady performed as Lily Savage in the 80s. "Anyway, thanks very much and good luck to everyone on Radio 2 and long may you continue!". "We wish Paul the very best of luck and hope to work . "Thank you very much for the kind words. InJanuary, when Bruce announced his departure, former Radio 2 DJ Vanessa feltz accused the . ", He added: "Thanks very much and good luck to everyone on Radio 2 and long may it continue.". Big Zuu profile: What is his net worth and does he have a wife? So no, Paul OGrady, Radio 2 isnt what it was, but nothing can stay the same for ever. Vanessa Feltz, 61, and Craig Charles, 58, have also moved on. He added that it was time to "hang up his headphones" and "run free". When lost listeners get bored of the ad breaks on these commercial shows, something tells me that Radio 2 will be there to greet them like an old friend. No offence to Rob but two completely different personalities and audiences. I was, because Im a great believer in continuity. Paul O'Grady has expressed his "disappointment" with BBC Radio 2, saying "it's not what it was". Ken explained his reasons for leaving Radio 2 in his quote and on air, the BBC previously told The Independent when approached about allegations of ageism from listeners. Ticket includes the latest edition of Eddie Albert & The Amazing Animal Gang - The Curse of the Smugglers' Treasure (Out Now) @HarperCollinsCh. Although the presenter had fully intended to continue as contracted until the end of March, the BBC decided Friday would be his last show. Then somebody said, You get on with elephants, whats up with you? And its true. Paul O'Grady breaks silence as BBC Radio 2 show taken off air amid 'new regime'. ITV said viewers will see her joiningPaulat Batterseas Brands Hatch site in Kent. While one very upset fan responded, typing: So very sad about this management decision Paul. Last week, Bruce tweeted: 'I will be presenting my last show on Radio 2 next Friday. Now, OGrady, who left Radio 2 in 2021 after being asked to share his slot with comedian Rob Beckett, has explained the motivation behind his decision. We respect his decision and wish him the very best of luck in the future as hes been a much loved part of the Radio 2 family.. Paul O'Grady has expressed his "disappointment" with BBC Radio 2, saying "it's not what it was". I go in a hotel room and I look at the bed and I think, Hmm, how many people have slept in this before me? Even in a posh hotel I think that. His last show . Addressing the reaction on his weekend show, Steve told listeners of his Sunday Love Songs show: "Before we start the show proper, if I may, I'd just like to say thank you ever so much for all the messages that have come in, over the weekend after I announced on Friday on the afternoon that we are leaving the afternoon show. Youll get a dog coming in thats in a terrible state and terrified of its own shadow. Joined December 2011. Bruce revealed last week he had intended to fulfil the remainder of his contract to the end of March, but said the BBC wanted him to leave earlier. The comedian, 66, who used to perform as drag queen Lily Savage, presented Paul . Comedy legend Paul O'Grady has been a regular Radio 2 host on Sunday afternoons since 2009 but has been removed from airwaves by BBC bosses and fans are not happy about his replacement. O'Grady, 67, had . I live on a farm in Kent and I ended up talking to my pigs! This has led to the departure of several older hosts, a shuffling of schedules and the introduction of new presenters such as DJ Spoony and Drag Race UK star Michelle Visage. Bruce leaving is undoubtedly the end of an era, but that doesnt mean it spells the end of the station. To get the latest news from the capital visit Metro.co.uk's visitMetro's London news hub. I like it when I get there, its the travelling I dont enjoy. 2021 Associated Newspapers Limited. What I think is happening is that we are passing through a period of turbulence. "I have loved every moment with my Radio 2 'Early Birds' and will miss my Lovely Listeners, Jolly Good Fellows and beloved friends and colleagues at Radio 2 with all my heart," she told listeners via a statement. After playing his last song, Friends by Bette Midler, he signed off with: "So you look after yourselves, stay safe and well. 'It is part of us, it is in our DNA - Ken Bruce is mid-mornings. At first, I thought, I dont want to go to Thailand. I went a bit sulky! Paul O'Grady signed off on Sunday from his final Radio 2 show, O'Grady with Malcolm Prince, the producer on his radio show since 2009, Harry: I feared losing memories of mum during therapy, US-made cheese can be called 'gruyere' - court, The children left behind in Cuba's exodus, Canadian grandma helps police snag phone scammer, AOC under investigation for Met Gala dress. 233 following. Besides Sausage and his other dogs, Paul also keeps pigs, chickens, sheep, goats and fluffy alpacas, meaning there's never a quiet moment on the farm. Graham Norton and Nick Grimshaw nominated for Metro.co.uk's top host gong at LGBT Awards. Paul O'Grady has quit his BBC Radio 2 show after station bosses made him share his Sunday afternoon slot with another presenter as part of a push to attract younger listeners.. Paul O'Grady and Andre Portasio were married in August 2017 He also . "Radio 2 was always for an older audience," the For The Love of Dogs star continued sorrowfully to the Metro. The exodus of stars from Radio 2 will see Ken Bruce walk away today after 31 years - joining the likes of Paul O'Grady, Steve Wright and Vanessa Feltz in moving on from the BBC station for . In response to Bruces tweet, a BBC spokesperson told The Independent: Ken decided to leave Radio 2 and its always been known hes leaving in March. BBC Radio 2, Paul OGrady lamented this week, is not what it once was. Offeecial Radio 2 show page Paul James O'Grady , MBE (born 14 Juin 1955) is an Inglis comedian, telly presenter, actor, writer an radio disc jockey. Other casualties include some of our most beloved presenters, including Vanessa Feltz, Graham Norton and Simon Mayo who have all left their shows for other stations and now, we bid farewell to Ken Bruce, his wonderful weekday midmorning show and his dulcet Scottish tones. Paul O'Grady will now present his 5pm-7pm show in two runs of 13 . We use your sign-up to provide content in the ways you've consented to and improve our understanding of you. 'They became frustrated by the rival station launching a marketing campaign for his show. Dec 19, 2022. Paul O'Grady thanked his listeners and said he can now "run free" as he signed off from his final BBC Radio 2 show on Sunday. #Blackpool. They wanted three and to tell you the truth I dont have an idea in my head for the third one! And I always have a look for bed bugs! However, after almost 12 blissful years, I now need to step down to catch up on a much needed decades deficit of beauty sleep! Paul has recently decided to quit BBC Radio 2 after 14 years and his final show aired on Sunday (August 14). "So, I did the honourable thing and I honoured my contract, gave my notice and now I'm off. The comedian, 67 . The BAFTA . Four more whiskies later and Im saying, Do you know, I wouldnt mind doing a few weeks of Annie. So, Im doing seven weeks. Bruce revealed on Friday (24 February) that he had been asked to leave before fulfilling his contract for another month. Paul admitted it was a "marriage of convenience", saying he wedded Teresa Fernandes in 1977 to stop her from being deported. The former Coronation Street star can still be heard on BBC Radio 6 Music each weekday (1-4pm) and on The Craig Charles Funk and Soul Show (Saturday nights, 6-9pm). There's not another radio programme like it the incomparable Paul O'Grady. In July, many listeners vented their anger as it was revealed that Steve's much-loved afternoon show was coming to an end after 23 years. Youd also have to be a real cynic not to be melted by the warmth of Saturday afternoons with Rylan Clark, and what is not to love about the lovely Liza Tarbuck and those uplifting listener tales? BBC Radio 2 fans are angry after hearing fan favourite Paul O'Grady is being taken off air after 23 years - to be replaced by younger comedian Rob Beckett. Ive played Miss Hannigan before, in 1998 in London, and then we toured with it. A BBC spokesperson emphasised that it was OGradys decision to quit: Were sad to say that after 14 years on Sunday afternoons, Paul OGrady has decided to leave Radio 2. Radio 2 announces today that presenter Paul O'Grady has decided to leave his Sunday afternoon show on the network. The 67-year-old icon left Radio 2 in August after 14 years at the station, saying he wasnt really happy there. Work in tv, radio and theatre when they'll have me and now and then I'll write a book. Paul O'Grady is leaving BBC Radio 2, saying it was "the right time to go". Many took to Twitter to express their delight for the TV and radio legend. Paul O'Grady is stepping down from his BBC Radio 2 show after hosting the Sunday afternoon slot for 14 years. Paul O'Grady has spoken out about recent changes at Radio 2, admitting he feels the station is "not what it was".. Last year, the former talk show host stepped down from his BBC radio show after 14 years, which came shortly after it was announced he'd be alternating in his regular slot with comedian Rob Beckett. READ NOW: EastEnders star Charlie Brooks loses battle with neighbours. Let's enjoy the week ahead!'. Listen, Kay wouldnt have been my first choice, but lets give the man a chance. . 15:37 GMT 28 Feb 2023 His personality, spontaneity and don't-take-this-too-seriously work so well on the radio. "Radio 2 has changed, its not what it was. Watch: Paul O'Grady explains reasons for leaving Radio 2 after 14 years. If you do try a Blue Motorcycle, please drink responsibly, Paul OGrady and producer Malcolm discuss the merits of another birthday, Paul OGrady responds to a request from a loyal listener. The 67-year-old confessed he "wasn't really happy" with the schedule shake-up which saw him share the . But this week it was . The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. BBC launches hunt to find singer's for King's coronation choir, following the newsBruce was leaving the BBC station after 45 years to go to commercial rival Greatest Hits Radio. Audio Producer #TeamPOGradio with Paul O'Grady. Ill probably get a flat, because then you can cater for yourself. BBC bosses made OGrady, 67, share slot with Rob Beckett in push to attract younger listeners. Remembering that his initial work for Radio 2 had been as an occasional stand-in presenter 14 years ago before he was handed his current show in 2009, he said: "I only came to do a few hours for Elaine Paige and look what happened.". The presenter will be absent from BBC Radio 2 for 13 weeks. Im travelling light this time but when I used to go on the road, Id take my Baby Belling oven and my electric frying pan. , updated Im going to do her a lot older, where shes got no tolerance at all for kids all she wants to do is listen to her radio and get drunk. She was a little raggy thing when I got her but shes cock of the walk now. BBC bosses have cancelled long-running shows . Producer: The Paul O'Grady Show. Vote now! Wonderful news and love to you both, another added. They always show the dog playing with the kids, catching a ball and sitting on the sofa and the new owner saying they wouldnt be without them. Where do Carole Middleton and Michael Middleton live? There is Sara Coxs upbeat drivetime slot, Jo Whileys pure-joy Shiny Happy Playlist to accompany cooking our evening meal, and Trevor Nelsons stellar late-night Rhythm Nation. Oh thats brilliant news Malcolm thank you for sharing, one fan penned. The 67-year-old broadcaster spoke out following the news Bruce was leaving the BBC . Going to miss you and Malcolm so much.. Read more: Entertainment Daily Awards 2022: Is Paul OGrady your National Treasure? We are no longer accepting comments on this article. The 67-year-old icon left Radio 2 in . By Everyone and their dog waded in on what they thought of this, and the whole saga has been poorly handled, awkward, messy, and worst of all, a sad way to close such an esteemed three decades for Bruce. The 72-year-old Scottish broadcaster will host his final 9.30am to 12pm Radio 2 show on Friday after 31 years before joining Greatest Hits Radio. MORE : Craig Revel Horwood loves playing Miss Hannigan in Annie: She despises children and shes drunk most of the time, MORE : Vernon Kay emotional as he speaks out on taking over from Ken Bruce on BBC Radio 2, Saving Private Ryan actor Tom Sizemore dies aged 61 after brain aneurysm, Gogglebox star Ellie Warner reveals babys gender in adorable moment with sister Izzis young children, Babatunde Aleshe confirms Matt Hancock is out of Im A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here! Its a Cinderella story. Vernon Kay has been announced as Bruces replacement, and will join fellow DJs Zoe Ball, Dermot OLeary, Rylan and Steve Wright. Last summer O'Grady left Radio 2 after Steve Wright, 68, Graham Norton, 59, and Simon Mayo, 64, all left and were replaced with a younger lineup. 2023 BBC. 396 Following. The For The Love Of Dogs star, 66, has been a familiar voice on the radio slot . Fans reacted in horror at his shock news with actress Amanda Mealing branding the move by Radio 2 basses: a f**king farce. Paul James O'Grady was born on 14 June 1955 in Birkenhead, England. Whether your football team lost, your plans got cancelled, or you burnt your roast dinner, we will put a smile on your face and if youre already smiling, then expect a full Cheshire Cat grin., Paul O'Grady's BBC Radio 2 show taken off air until May 2022. The 67-year-old announced in August this year that he was stepping down . Radio 2 adamantly denied her claims in a statement in which it added that the channel "is hugely proud of having a range of presenters from their 30s to 80 years old". Secret husband Simon was the first of the big names to walk away from Radio 2 after 17 years at the station. The former Lily Savage star has been hosting a Sunday evening show on the station from 5pm until 7pm since 2009. and However, the For the Love of Dogs presenter has since been snapped up by Boom Radio UK for a one-off Christmas Day special. He started off working the drag circuit with his act across pubs and . In an Instagram post on Sunday, O'Grady said: "The reason I'm leaving, because everybody's asking me this, is because I wasn't really happy with the 13 weeks on, 13 weeks off business. Paul O'Grady said in a statement on Tuesday he "loved" doing his Sunday afternoon show but feels it is the "right time to go" The broadcaster's comments come after the news that veteran DJ Ken Bruce was leaving the station after 45 years to go to Greatest Hits Radio. O'Grady has hosted his current show for 13 years . February 2022. "Radio 2 has changed, it . And now we have Vernon Kay, who will take the helm of the midmorning show in May, while Sounds of the 80s Gary Davies keeps the seat warm in the interim. Radio 2 "is not what it was" and its quest for a younger audience makes no sense, according to Paul O'Grady, who departed the station last year. When we were in the West End with Annie, Starlight Express was on around the corner. I was in panto and I went for a drink afterwards with the producer. Paul O'Grady has criticised Radio 2, saying 'it's not what it was' after Ken Bruce quit his primetime show. Hes an experienced broadcaster, has put in the hours as a stand-in, and he might just surprise us. "Its been an honour and privilege to be the Breakfast voice of BBC Radio London for 20 years and although Im leaving the show, Ill continue to expect hugs from my lovely listeners when I see them on the streets of London! After 14 years, you left your Radio 2 show last year, handing in your notice after being . He is the latest in a string of older DJs to step back, including Steve Wright, Graham Norton and Simon Mayo. Pauls taking #TeamPOGradio to @BoomRadioUK for the annual Christmas show! It comes as a BBC source told The Sun: 'The BBC believe that every second he is on air is just free advertising for his new show on Greatest Hits Radio. Its a one-off special and, if youd like a shoutout, for your friends or family, email now, But be quick: Paul O'Grady has finished his 14-year stint on Radio 2 and confirmed reports it was because he was unhappy about sharing his Sunday afternoon slot. Their daughter, Sharyn, was born in 1974. 'It's the best quiz on radio': Will PopMaster's devoted fans follow Ken Bruce to Greatest Hits? It really, really means a lot and I'm back on afternoons until the Autumn from tomorrow anyway. 'I had intended fulfilling my contract until the end of March but the BBC has decided it wants me to leave earlier. It leaves a sour taste.'. Paul O'Grady pictured in February 2022. Jamie Phillips Paul O'Grady and producer Malcolm discuss the merits of another birthday. Paul O'Grady has finished his 14-year stint on Radio 2 and confirmed reports it was because he was unhappy about sharing his Sunday afternoon slot. Paul O'Grady fans are over the moon as the much-loved star has revealed his next career venture following his infamous BBC Radio exit. Following his departure from Radio 2, the much-loved presenter has revealed that he is not only working on a second series of the NTA nominated series For the Love of Dogs but also the release of a second childrens book. The announcement comes after a shake-up which saw him share the slot with comedian . Paul OGrady fans are over the moon as the much-loved star has revealed his next career venture following his infamous BBC Radio exit. The broadcasters comments come after the news that veteran DJ Ken Bruce was leaving the station after 45 years to go to Greatest Hits Radio. His replacement, Vernon Kay, has been met with scepticism, and so the whole palaver has cemented one prevailing narrative: that we are witnessing the demise of Radio 2. Paul O'Grady, Simon Mayo, and Ken Bruce are just some of the big names to exit Radio 2 in recent years. We wish Paul the very best of luck and hope to work with him again in the future., Paul OGrady: Im not worried about sex, money or fame I just want a mongoose, Sign up to First Edition, our free daily newsletter every weekday morning at 7am BST, Original reporting and incisive analysis, direct from the Guardian every morning, Paul O'Grady: I feel that now is the right time to go., KenBruces Radio 2 departure handled badly, says Simon Mayo, KenBruce says BBC has hastened his Radio 2 exit, Vernon Kay confirmed as new host of Ken Bruces BBC Radio 2 slot, Its like signing Messi: Ken Bruces move a coup for Greatest Hits Radio, KenBruce to leave BBC for new radio show, BBClocal radio stations face big cuts to content made for their area, Radio presenter Tim Gough dies during breakfast show, Michael Gove lined up to become presenter on News UKs Times Radio, Steve Wright signs off from Radio 2 afternoon show after 23 years.