…By Lola Smith for TDPel Media.
Vernon Kay, the popular TV presenter, is set to begin his role as the host of BBC Radio 2 on Monday, following in the footsteps of veteran broadcaster Ken Bruce.
After 31 years of hosting the mid-morning show, Bruce announced his departure in January, making way for Kay to take over.
The show, airing every weekday from 9.30am to 12pm, will feature various segments, including the music quiz “Ten To The Top,” “Tracks Of My Years,” the Record and Album Of The Week, and performances from the Radio 2 Piano Room.
Kay expresses a mix of excitement and apprehension about his new role.
Transitioning from Ken Bruce:
Kay admits feeling a certain level of apprehension as he prepares to step into the shoes of Ken Bruce.
He acknowledges the unique vibe and atmosphere that Bruce created and describes him as a master of delivering funny, entertaining, and information-packed anecdotes in just five sentences—a skill that takes Kay significantly longer to replicate.
Having spent considerable time listening to Bruce’s broadcasts, Kay is conscious of the challenge of living up to his predecessor’s legacy.
Surprise and Acceptance of the Opportunity:
When Kay first learned of Bruce’s decision to step down, he was shocked.
However, his surprise escalated when Helen Thomas, the boss at Radio 2, approached him to take over the show.
Initially content with occasional fill-in appearances, Kay considered those opportunities as a chance to be a bit more daring and mischievous.
However, it turned out that his fill-in stints for presenters like Zoe Ball and Steve Wright were actually an audition for the coveted role.
Kay immediately accepted the offer, without a second thought.
Subsequently, he faced some criticism for being too young to replace Bruce, an experience he humorously refers to as “the best trolling” he has ever encountered.
Approach and Advice:
Kay aims to infuse the show with “real energy” and intends to follow the advice he received from fellow Radio 2 presenter Scott Mills—to be himself and not try to change or create a new persona.
This guidance helps alleviate his anxiety about living up to expectations.
Kay highlights his extensive experience in broadcasting, spanning almost 25 years since the age of 14, contrasting it with his earlier job of cleaning school toilets.
He emphasizes that speaking to eight million people on the radio is incomparable and affirms his readiness to take on the challenge.
Conclusion:
With anticipation and a touch of nervousness, Vernon Kay prepares to embark on his new journey as the host of BBC Radio 2’s mid-morning show.
Taking over from the iconic Ken Bruce, Kay acknowledges the unique qualities his predecessor brought to the program.
He remains committed to injecting his own energy and personality into the show while staying true to himself.
Despite initial surprise at being offered the role, Kay embraces the opportunity and looks forward to engaging with millions of listeners on a daily basis.
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