Entertainment
Dan Walker quits BBC’s Football Focus after 12 years: ‘It’s time for someone else to take the reins’
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Dan Walker has announced he is quitting Football Focus after 12 years presenting show.
The BBC Breakfast star, who has been a staple of the sports show, shared the news on Twitter.
In a video, the 44-year-old told fans: ‘Hello, I have some news. This is going to be my last season presenting Football Focus. It’s been a real pleasure and an amazing 12 years, and I can honestly say I’ve loved every single second of it.
‘I’m really proud about the job that we’ve done, the changes we’ve made to the show, the issues we’ve looked at, and at a time when the football landscape immeasurably.
‘But, having said all that, after 12 years it’s time for someone else to take the reins.’
‘I’m really going to miss the magic of the programme, the opportunities it has given me, the great friends, many friends I’ve made along the way,’ he continued.
‘And the thousands and thousands of conversations I’ve had with people who thankfully love the show as much as I do.
‘I won’t be disappearing, I’ll still be on Breakfast, and you’ll see me elsewhere across BBC Sport, including the Olympics, the show on that this summer.
‘I’m also really looking forward to letting you know about one or two other exciting opportunities further down the road.’
Dan concluded the post: ‘The last thing I want to say is thank you. First of all to the amazing team behind the programme who put in so much love, care and effort every single week, to get us on air.
‘Thank you for all the comments, all the questions and for tuning in, giving us record audiences for a programme that’s been on air since 1974.
‘I really hope you enjoy the rest of the season and I’ll see you soon.’
Right on cue, fans rushed to share their sadness at his announcement.
BBC Radio 1 star Chris Stark replied: ‘Big shoes to fill. Congratulations on everything you have achieved with the show.
‘I will never not buzz off watching you film FA cup opening scenes as you walk the entire ground, meet every staff member, notable fan, tea lady and make it all look so relaxed and exciting.’
A follower posted: ‘Been watching you on FF since I was a kid, getting back from football training every Saturday for my own egg club entry at home – truly the end of an era! Best of luck, Dan.’
‘That’s a shame Dan, as I think I those 12 years you’ve made the shown your own [sic],’ another penned.
‘That said, life moves on, and I for one would love to see @AlexScott get the chance to host. Best wishes.’
A Twitter user added: ‘Such a shame, but Focus’ loss will be someone else’s gain! Looking forward to seeing you on the Olympics! Hoping for more fun like in Rio!
‘Good luck with all the new ventures too!’
While former Good Morning Britain presenter Piers Morgan went for a different route, quoting his rival’s post with the message: ‘I start Saturday.’
Dan began presenting Football Focus in 2009, taking over the helm from Manish Bhasin – who left the position for the Football League Show.
While he confirmed he will still be working with BBC Sport, it is not clear who will replace him on the series – which airs on Saturdays on BBC One.
Philip Bernie, head of TV at BBC Sport, thanked the presenter for his hard work in the role over the last 12 years.
‘Dan has been exceptional as presenter of Football Focus for the last 12 years,’ he said, via the Independent.
‘He is a top-class broadcaster who has brought authority, wit and fun to the show, always working so well with such warmth with the guests on the show.
‘We are extremely grateful for all he given to Focus, and will continue to enjoy watching him on the BBC’s sport output as well as the wider BBC.’
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