Countdown

Funny I was only thinking how bored he seemed today, I never usually watch it as I don't want to look as bored.

I'm thinking Richard Madeley might be possible as a replacement.

http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/tv/news/a321329/jeff-stelling-quits-as-countdown-host.html

It makes you wonder if Voderman will be next to leave. It's true what they say about her every year she looks younger, she's even dyed her hair blonde.

Sorry?

Have you seen Countdown lately?

She also changed her name to Rachel Riley and became about 30 years younger overnight. I assume you didn't know Carol Vorderman left Countdown at the end of 2008! Or is your sense of humour going over my head?

I had hoped Jeff Stelling would stick around longer than three years, but that's almost two years longer than Lynam and a year longer than O'Connor. I think they will struggle to find someone with the same enthusiasm for and loyalty to the programme as Richard Whiteley (who was rumoured to be working for next to nothing when the programme first began).

What's with the link to a DS thread?

I've coped and pasted the wrong link. I've changed it now.

"Unbelievable, Jeff!"

I read about this last night, it's sad news as Jeff and Rachel have really brought it back to life especially after the two Des's who I just didn't take to. But considering the increased work load Jeff has had from Sky since the whole Keys/Gray scandal, I guess it's no surprise, but as Jeff said his priority has always been the football, which you can understand. Plus commuting to Manchester and back must take it's toll.

How often do Countdown record shows? I'd assumed they did weekly blocks with 3+ shows a day - so I hadn't thought the commute was that onerous - though I know Des Lynam said he found it tough (but he was significantly older, and was presenting when the show was in Leeds not Manchester?)

I'd love it if Kris came on Dictionary Corner.

Assuming nothing has changed in recent years they would record five shows a day from Monday to Wednesday in blocks throughout the year - so as Countdown is now on roughly 45 weeks a year (it's off air in the summer, over Christmas and for Cheltenham) that would take 15 weeks.

A shame he is going - easily the best host since Richard, but not unsurprising. As for replacements - recent history shows broadcasters rather than comedians are probably the better option. One thing though I hope a new host brings is new titles. The current ones have been around since Richard Whitely died (though recoloured blue when Stelling took over), and even then were just a tweaked version of the final set of titles from the Richard Whiteley era.

Anyone think Terry Wogan might be in with a shout?