Jeremy Paxman to step down as host of University Challenge after 28 years

Virgin Radio

16 Aug 2022, 11:31

University Challenge host Jeremy Paxman is to step down from his role as host after almost 30 years at the helm. 

The celebrated broadcaster has presented the show since 1994, and will record his final episode later this year. 

The BBC have confirmed his final series will air on BBC Two from Monday 29th August right through until summer 2023.

In a statement, Paxman said: “I’ve had a blast hosting this wonderful series for nearly 29 years. I’ve been lucky enough to work with an amazing team and to meet some of the swottier brains in the country. It gives me hope for the future.”

Kate Phillips, BBC’s Director of Unscripted, added: “Since the BBC revived University Challenge in 1994 Jeremy has been at the front and centre of the show’s success and is without doubt one of the world’s finest, and most formidable quizmasters. 

“We are hugely grateful to Jeremy for his dedication to the programme for an incredible 28 years, he will be much missed by us all and the show’s millions of viewers.”

University Challenge is Britain’s longest running quiz show format, and will celebrate 60 years on the small screen in a special documentary on Monday 29th August. 

Fans won’t have to wait too long to find out who will step into Paxman’s prestigious shoes, as the BBC will announced the new presenter later this week. 

University Challenge first aired in 1962 on ITV, and had 913 episodes until 1987. It was then revived by the BBC in 1994.

Imperial College London are currently the title holders, having won the 51st series back in April. 

Meanwhile, Paxman will open up about his Parkinson’s Disease diagnosis for a new documentary for ITV.

Titled Paxman: Putting Up with Parkinson’s, the documentary will follow the presenter as he interviews other celebrities living with the disease, as well as leading experts in that area of medicine.

The broadcaster revealed his diagnosis last year and stated he was suffering with “mild symptoms” but was “receiving excellent treatment”.

Paxman will also be busting some myths around the illness in the hour-long special and taking part in an English National Ballet therapy dance class, learning to play bowls and speaking to President of Parkinson’s UK, Jane Asher.