Bob Harris has announced he is stepping down from his BBC Radio 2 shows as he focuses on his cancer treatment, describing the decision as “one of the hardest” of his life.
The 80-year-old broadcasting legend, who has prostate cancer, revealed in April that the disease had spread to his upper spine. He will no longer host Sounds Of The 70s or The Radio 2 Country Show, bringing an emotional close to a BBC career that has spanned nearly 56 years.
Bob said: “It’s incredible to think that my broadcasting career has spanned almost 56 years. I am very fortunate to have spent my entire working life doing something I love so much.”
He added that Radio 2 had been his “fabulous family” and said presenting Sounds Of The 70s had made his time at the station “the most special” of his life.
In a moving message to listeners, Bob said: “More than anything, I want to say thank you to my listeners. I have put everything I have into every show I’ve ever done, and it’s all been because of you. Your love and loyalty mean more to me than words can ever say.”
Explaining why he had made the painful decision, he continued: “I am so sorry that my health issues are forcing me to step down, but I realise that I must concentrate on getting myself well again.
“This has been one of the hardest decisions of my life, but I would never want to be doing programmes knowing that I am unable to give you 100%. I am going to miss you, and I love you very much. Thank you for listening.”
Helen Thomas, head of Radio 2, paid tribute to him as “a true radio legend” and said everyone at the station was sending Bob and his family love and support.
Shaun Keaveny will now take over Sounds Of The 70s on Sundays, while Darius Rucker will continue to host The Radio 2 Country Show in the interim.
