For the past few months, fans of The One Show have been coming to terms with the fact that Matt Baker’s departure from the programme is imminent.
Matt, who has been a part of the BBC One show for the past nine years, announced back in December that he was quitting, saying the show had been a ‘massive part’ of his life before breaking the news.
He’s been absent from the show recently after self-isolating in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic – but will soon be gone from it completely – as tonight’s his last night as presenter.
But just why is he leaving the show?
Why is Matt Baker leaving The One Show?
The presenter explained in December he was seeking new opportunities as well as wanting to spend more time with his family.
‘I’m excited about other opportunities that come my way but most of all I’m looking forward to having dinner with my family and being able to put my kids to bed,’ he said in a statement after he had made his big announcement.
Speaking on the show he told viewers: ‘The One Show has been a massive part of my life for a decade now and I’ve loved every second of being a part of it, but I’m going to be leaving this green sofa in the Spring.
‘It’s time to give someone else the opportunity to see how big-hearted and generous you, our One Show viewers really are. ‘It’s something that I get to witness every year when you help to change the lives of so many vulnerable youngsters – the Rickshaw Challenge for Children In Need.
‘All that support that you show us, you will never really understand how much that means to me.’
Who is replacing Matt Baker?
It’s been revealed that Matt won’t be officially replaced – with a string of guest hosts joining Alex Jones on the show instead.
‘During his absences on The One Show, a long line of other men have appeared in his place and appeared to gel well with Alex Jones,’ a TV source told The Sun.
‘Producers felt the mix kept the dynamic on the sofa feeling fresh and different, which seemed to match the mix of content on the programme.’
‘Plus, there isn’t any shortage of stars who are willing to regularly feature on one of BBC1’s most popular shows.’
The One Show continues tonight on BBC One at 7pm.
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