Channel 4 has announced that Colin Murray will take over from Anne Robinson as the new permanent Countdown host.
Murray has guest hosted the UK’s longest running TV quiz show since summer 2022, becoming a favourite among fans.
Confirming the news on Steph’s Packed Lunch, Murray said: “It’s a career dream to be named as permanent anchor of one of television's most iconic programmes. I have been a fan since day one, been part of the family for over a decade, appearing on Dictionary Corner, and now I get the honour of guiding it into a fifth decade. However, I just don’t want Countdown to survive, I want it to thrive.
During his guest hosting stint, more people tuned into the daytime quiz show, reaching close to a million for the final episode of 2022. “I want that to just be the beginning,” said Murray. “Countdown is a special show, and its stars will always be the letters and the numbers, but it’s more than that. Great afternoon company for people of all ages from all across the UK. Rachel, Susie and I are very excited for the year ahead. If you haven’t watched in a while, drop by and join us. Everyone is welcome.”
Before Countdown, Colin was known for hosting Match of the Day 2 on BBC Two and radio shows on BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC Radio Ulster and BBC Radio 1.
Murray will become the show’s seventh permanent host, replacing Anne Robinson after she stepped down last summer. Previous hosts include Richard Whiteley, Des Lynam, Des O’Connor, Jeff Stelling, and Nick Hewer.
To celebrate the show’s 40th anniversary, the show saw Baroness Floella Benjamin, Sir Trevor McDonald, Reverend Richard Coles and Moira Stuart all guest host a week of episodes.
Watch Countdown Monday - Friday at 2.10pm on Channel 4.
