The new host of Countdown has been revealed.
The iconic Channel 4 programme has been temporarily hosted by Colin Murray since Anne Robinson quit the show in May last year.
The Weakest Link presenter, 77, stepped down after one year because she wanted to spend more time with her grandchildren.
Other than taking a short break from running the show when it was hosted by a series of celebrity stars for its 40th anniversary, Colin has been at the front and centre with co-star Rachel Riley.
Today on Steph’s Packed Lunch it was revealed that 45-year-old Colin will now be taking over as the official host of Countdown.
Before joining the show full-time the presenter appeared in its Dictionary Corner with Susie Dent.
He then stood in for previous presenter Nick Hewer during lockdown.
Colin is also known for being a radio and TV presenter and the face of BBC’s Match of The Day.
Speaking to Steph on TV today he said this was his "dream job", adding: “I get to see it into its fifth decade, being honest I think it’s like a football team that used to win trophies and I want to win trophies again.
“We want it to really thrive, return it to the days when it used to win everything in daytime.”
His co-stars were quick to congratulate him on Twitter, with Susie Dent writing: “The news is out! And it’s wonderful.
“Congratulations Colin Murray on nabbing the best seat on TV (I may be biased) and becoming the permanent Countdown host. We are very lucky to have you.”
Rachel Riley added: “It’s true! By popular demand, the man from County Down has moved from caretaker manager to full time official Countdown host.
“Congrats Colin Murray, welcome to the team properly! We couldn’t be happier to have you!”
Countdown first aired on TV in November 1982 with Richard Whitely as its first host and Carol Vorderman on the numbers and letters.
After Richard sadly died in 2005, Des O’Connor took over for a year followed by Jeff Stelling from January 2009 to December 2001.
When Jeff stepped down, Nick Hewer became the new host and left in July 2021.
Anne then became the show’s first female presenter but quit after one year saying she had "stayed longer than I signed up for."
Her last episode was in July last year before Colin took over as the temporary host.
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