Anne Robinson becomes the FIRST female presenter in Countdown’s 39 year history after being unveiled as new host of the long-running show
Anne Robinson has been confirmed as the first female presenter of Countdown after being named as the outgoing Nick Hewer’s replacement.
The no-nonsense TV personality, 76, best known for her former role on The Weakest Link, will take over from Hewer later this year.
Confirmation of her appointment on the Channel 4 staple was made on Monday morning’s edition of Steph’s Packed Lunch, where her name formed a Countdown inspired conundrum.
New appointment: Anne Robinson has been confirmed as the first female presenter of Countdown after being named as the outgoing Nick Hewer’s replacement
Robinson became a familiar presence on TV screens after fronting BBC show’s Watchdog and Points Of View during the 1980s, ’90s and 2000s.
But it was her straight-talking approach and popular catchphrase on The Weakest Link that helped turn her into a household name.
Running from 2000 to 2012, the hugely successful show was syndicated across the world and became renowned for Robinson’s famous sign-off – ‘You are the Weakest Link, goodbye.’
Outgoing host Hewer confirmed his departure from the show in December following a nine year spell as its regular presenter.
Hewer, 76, had been temporarily replaced by Colin Murray while he shielded at home following the spread of coronavirus, but later revealed he will not be returning.
Sharing a series of tweets, he wrote: ‘Delighted to be back in the Countdown studio after another enforced lockdown, BUT this latest lockdown has given me an opportunity to consider my future life.
‘I’ve decided it’s a good time to step down at the end of my contract in the New Year.’
Her added: ‘As someone in his 77th year, who will be in his 10th year hosting the great British institution that is Countdown, I think it’s time to smell the flowers and get a dog.
‘But let me now take the opportunity to say that it’s been a privilege and a pleasure to take the helm of Countdown, first broadcast back in 1982 and still a Guinness record holder.
‘Although I’ll be on your screens well into 2021, let me thank the broadcasters Channel 4, the truly dedicated and unwaveringly professional studio crew and production staff at ITV Studios who make the programmes, all 250 or so a year.
‘My wonderfully talented co-hosts Susie Dent and Rachel Riley but above all, the quirky genius of producer Damian Eadie, who never ceases to amuse and who always demands the best of us.
‘And a sincere thanks to our loyal viewers and of course the legions of contestants who battle their brains out for the chance of carrying off the Richard Whiteley Trophy or a priceless teapot.
‘And so, to whoever takes my seat, I wish you every success and hope that you have as much fun and reward as I’ve enjoyed.’