Countdown’s Anne Robinson has shared the news that she will be waking away from the Channel 4 show after just one year.
The star, 77, first appeared on the programme in 2021 and became the sixth female to take the reins of the programme.
Having recorded 265 episodes, she says she made the decision to walk away after her initial contract was extended and urged bosses to realise women over 70 can still do their jobs.
Anne said: “I’ve had a blast hosting this wonderful show and I stayed longer than I signed up for, now it is time for an older woman to take the reins.
(Image: Press Association Images)
“I hope too I’ve encouraged TV bosses to realise that not all women at the wrong end of their seventies are in care homes playing bingo and watching conjuring tricks.”
The former The Weakest Link presenter went on to add: “In fact, the genius of Countdown is that it’s a brilliant way to keep the brain exercised, I run 5k most days of the week.
“And I can now do an anagram at twice the speed I could this time last year.
(Image: BBC)
“But I have grandchildren, a large garden and a home in New York, all deserving more of my attention.”
A spokesperson for Countdown said: “Quick-witted Anne has been a brilliant host on this iconic show.”
Anne took over the role of host from Nick Hewer, who followed in the footsteps of Jeff Stelling, Des O’Connor, Des Lynam and Richard Whiteley.
(Image: Channel 4)
Her first episode, airing on June 28, 2021, saw her appear alongside mathematician Rachel Riley and lexicographer, Susie Dent.
During her time on the programme, there had been reports of a rift between Anne and Rachel, who later dismissed the claims.
Speaking on Lorraine, about Anne and her famous personality, Rachel said: “She is not the cuddliest person in the world. It is just a different show now, she is making it her own.
“She is getting stuff out of the contestants, sometimes it is barbed, sometimes it is funny, she has got a different flavour.”
Anne will continue to appear on the popular Channel 4 programme until later this year before a new host will be announced.
For more of the latest showbiz news from Daily Star, make sure you sign up for one of our newsletters here.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
