Les Dennis to host Countdown for two weeks

Les Dennis has announced he will host Countdown for two weeks while Channel 4 continues to search for a permanent replacement for Anne Robinson.

The Scouse comedian confirmed the news on Twitter saying "It is such an honour. Hope you enjoy."

The former Family Fortunes host is stepping in to temporarily cover the popular daytime quiz show between 4-15 August while current presenter Colin Murray has two weeks off. Murray is currently scheduled to temporarily host the show 'until late Autumn', according to Channel 4.

Read more: Lorraine urges Vorderman to host Countdown

Dennis previously hosted Family Fortunes from 1987-2002.

Anne Robinson stepped down as the host of Countdown earlier in 2022 after one year “in the hot seat”.

Former Weakest Link star Robinson, 77, joined the Channel 4 quiz show last year, becoming its sixth presenter and the first female to take the role.

Robinson, who recorded 265 episodes of the show, 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.”

Read more: Everyone who has hosted Countdown

She added: “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.

Read more: Countdown's new host revealed: Colin Murray has already started filming

“But I have grandchildren, a large garden and a home in New York, all deserving more of my attention.”

Les Dennis was also recently announced to be joining the cast of Only Fools and Horses: The Musical in the West End.

The comedian, 68, will take up the role from 3 October, replacing Andy Mace who currently plays the beloved character.

Watch: Lorraine wants Carol Vorderman back on Countdown