Claudia Winkleman shares verdict on BBC Radio 2 replacement

claudia winkleman and romesh ranganathan
Claudia Winkleman addresses Radio 2 replacementBBC

Claudia Winkleman is soon set to leave her presenting role on BBC Radio 2 and already has strong feelings about her replacement.

The Traitors star announced late last year that she’d be stepping down from her Saturday morning radio show, with comedian Romesh Ranganathan taking her place.

Reflecting on her upcoming exit, Winkleman’s now shared her thoughts on how Ranganathan will do in the job.

claudia winkleman and romesh ranganathan
BBC

Related: The Traitors – Where to buy Claudia Winkleman’s outfits

Chatting with Nick Grimshaw and Angela Hartnett during an episode of the Dish podcast, she described Ranganathan as "the funniest man alive".

"I think everyone will be very pleased, they will throw 'see you' parties," Winkleman remarked. "It’s going to be amazing,"

Detailing what she’ll miss most about her radio gig, Winkleman said: "I’ll miss the listeners because what is so lovely about radio is that it’s immediate.

"Once when I sneezed, all of these lovely people like Stephen in Halifax and Betty got in touch saying, 'What you want to do is this...' That’s my favourite bit."

claudia winkleman on the traitors series 2, episode 10
Llara Plaza - BBC

Related: BBC Radio 2's Zoe Ball to take time off over heartbreaking family news

Having announced her departure in December 2023, Winkleman is officially set to step down from her show at the end of March.

Ranganathan will then take over the 10am to 1pm time slot in April, launching his new show.

Sharing her exit news with fans at the time, Winkleman explained her decision to leave was based on wanting to spend more time with family.

"I absolutely love Radio 2 and it’s been a privilege to host the Saturday morning show for three years," she said. "The truth is my children are growing up inordinately fast so I have decided to follow them around at home before they leave for good.

"I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who works on the show, I will continue to visit with badly made biscuits and will pester the bosses to present the odd special."

You Might Also Like