Miles Jupp to leave Radio 4’s The News Quiz

Miles Jupp is stepping down as host of The News Quiz on BBC Radio 4 at the end of the current series.

The programme is one of the most popular comedy shows on Radio 4 with millions of listeners tuning in each week.

Miles, who is an award-winning comedian, actor and writer, has been at the helm of the show for four years and had chaired over 80 episodes. His last appearance as host will be on Friday 31 May.

His first appearance on the show was as a panellist in 2009 when the programme’s host was Sandi Toksvig.

Miles Jupp says: “I have really enjoyed hosting the News Quiz and I count myself as extremely lucky to have had this opportunity. Although one or two of the news stories we’ve been discussing on the show remain unresolved, the time is right for me.

“I would now really like to focus more on acting and writing, and stepping down from this job will give me the flexibility to do this while also spending more time at home with my enormous family.

“I’m very grateful to the production staff, panellists, writers, technicians and newsreaders who all make the show what it is, and also to the listeners who are enthusiastic, loyal and – based on those who I bump into on trains and so forth – extremely polite. Thank you all.

“And with that, goodnight.”

Sioned Wiliam, Commissioning Editor for Radio 4 Comedy says: “Miles has been a wonderful presenter, loved by panellists and audiences alike. I’d like to thank him for entertaining millions of Radio 4 listeners with his razor sharp wit, warmth and intelligence – and not forgetting that irrepressible laugh. He has expertly continued the great success of The News Quiz and will be hugely missed.”

There’s no word yet on who will replace Jupp, but Radio 4 says it will appoint a new host in due course.