BBC star leaves fans devastated as he steps down after 28 years-Laura Harman-Entertainment – Metro

Sean Rafferty is set to step down from his BBC Radio 3 slot. (Picture BBC/Adrian Weinbrecht)

It has been announced that after nearly three decades, Sean Rafferty is stepping down from his presenting role at BBC Radio 3.

The presenter has been working on In Tune – the drivetime show which features classical, jazz and folk music – since 1997 and will be stepping down in spring 2025 after a 28-year tenure on the show.

The broadcaster announced in a statement: ‘I shall miss the truly remarkable and life-enhancing musicians, many coming to the studio ever since they began their careers: A joy.

‘And to be able to share it all with the listeners at home: A privilege. They’ve been like family.’

The Belfast-born broadcaster has been working in the business for more than 50 years and earned several accolades during his career. 

In 2004 he was awarded Radio Presenter of the Year at the Broadcasting Press Guild Awards and in 2017 he received an MBE for services to broadcasting.

The radio host has presented In Tune since 1997 (Picture: BBC/Adrian Weinbrecht)

From April 2025, Rafferty’s role will be replaced by Petroc Trelawny, currently the voice of BBC Radio 3’s weekday Breakfast.

Katie Derham will be staying on as a co-host with Trelawyn who said in a statement that he planned to maintain the ‘jewel of a programme’ Rafferty ‘invented’.

‘Sean has stylishly and wittily helmed In Tune for three decades, creating a very special space for musicians to perform and share rich insights into their work and their lives,’ said Trelawny.

‘That artists, singers, conductors and composers so relish appearing on the show is in a big part thanks to Sean’s personality; his long stewardship of the programme has made it a vital place to celebrate many forms of music making.

‘Alongside Katie, I will be working hard to ensure we maintain the rich jewel of a programme he invented.’

Rafferty has been praised throughout his time on the show (Picture: Amy T. Zielinski/Redferns via Getty Images)

Sam Jackson, Controller BBC Radio 3 and BBC Proms also commented: ‘After over 50 years of broadcasting, nearly three decades of which have been on BBC Radio 3, Sean Rafferty’s impact has been immeasurable – and we all wish him the very best for the future. 

‘I’m delighted that, after over a decade of early starts, Petroc will be joining Katie to bring his wit, warmth and sparkling rapport to In Tune.’

Rafferty’s last broadcast of In Time will take place in April 2025.

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