Les Dennis has been announced as Anne Robinson’s replacement for hit Channel 4 game show Countdown.
Colin Murray has been acting as stand-in host for Anne since she left the programme earlier this year – leaving fans distracted as she didn’t say ‘goodbye’ during her final episode.
But Les is set to take over in August.
READ MORE: Former Countdown guest ‘threatened by fans and sent explicit fan mail’ after show
The former Coronation Street actor – who played Michael Rodwell on the cobbles from 2014 until 2016 – announced the news on Twitter.
He wrote: “From 4th August until 15th I shall be hosting the iconic @C4Countdown.
“It is such an honour. Hope you enjoy.”
(Image: Dave Benett/Getty Images)
His fans quickly flocked to congratulate the star, with one posting: “At last, a reason to plug the telly in!”
“Amazing mate!” someone else echoed, while a third fan penned: “This is a perfect match for Countdown!”
Another fan tweeted: “I’ll definitely be tuning in! Good luck, you’re perfect for Countdown!”
Les has already cemented his place in TV history, acting as the host of Family Fortunes from 1987 until 2002. He’s also appeared in everything from Ricky Gervais’ series Extras to The Bill.
(Image: ITV)
It has been reported that Les is stepping in for radio presenter Colin as he tested positive for Covid-19 at the time of recording, though Colin has not yet confirmed this.
Les also didn’t hesitate to clap back at one fan who teased: “Did you know Les Denis is an anagram of idleness?”
But he quickly snapped back: “Susie Dent wouldn’t allow it. Two n’s in Dennis.”
Anne originally quit the show amid rumours of a feud between her and Rachel Riley, though in her official statement she said that her home in New York needs more attention than she’s been giving it.
She 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.
“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.
“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.”
She concluded: “But I have grandchildren, a large garden and a home in New York, all deserving more of my attention.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
