Des O'Connor quits Countdown
Thursday, 24 July 2008
Des O'Connor is leaving 'Countdown' after two years of presenting the show.
The 76-year-old personality confirmed he will be stepping down from hosting the daily Channel 4 letter and numbers game, and is in final negotiations to star in a West End show, adding: "It's something I have always wanted to do."
Speaking about his decision to leave the show, Des said: "It's been wonderful hosting a programme which is part of TV folklore. I have really enjoyed my two years with the show and I would like to thank all concerned at Channel 4.
"I've made a lot of new friends. Carol Vorderman has been a joy - it's been a giggle since day one. But I miss the thrill of stepping out on a live stage for the one-man concerts and the challenge of live TV entertainment-based shows."
Co-host Carol Vorderman added: "Audiences love him and we have had so many laughs in the studio and only last week we recorded some of our best shows."
Des' final appearance on the show will be broadcast at the end of November.
Channel 4 have yet to announce who the new host of the programme will be.
(C) BANG Media International
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