Vernon Kay is likely to become a more regular feature on BBC Radio 2 after apparently signing a two-year contract.
The previous I’m A Celebrity… The Get Me Out of Here star has allegedly signed a contract to replace Ken Bruce, who left the station after 45 years in January.
Vernon, 48, has pleased viewers in recent weeks as he has frequently stood in for hosts Zoe Ball and Scott Mills, who headline the Morning Show and the afternoon programmes, respectively.
Vernon will reportedly take over the 9:30 a.m. slot that Bruce, 72, presently presents for two and a half hours on weekdays.
Contracts were allegedly signed last week, and an announcement is due on Monday.
‘This is the biggest, most coveted gig in radio,’ a source said.
They added to The Sun: ‘Ken’s show is the most listened to in Europe so Vernon has massive shoes to fill. But he’s such a warm, easy presenter and listeners have really taken to him.
‘Vernon has a raft of fresh, new ideas and content, but will not be trying to reinvent the wheel here – he knows how important this show is to listeners, and wants them to feel welcome and safe.
‘Everyone at the Beeb is hugely excited to have him on board.’
Vernon rescued the day last month when she stepped in to replace Zoe, 52, on her Morning Show when she became unwell and tested positive for Covid.
In January, Bruce announced his retirement from Radio 2, and he’ll present his farewell programme in March, with Vernon allegedly poised to broadcast his debut show in April.
‘Nothing remains the same forever, and I have decided the time is right for me to move on from Radio 2 when my present contract expires in March,’ one confirmed.
‘It’s been a tremendously happy time for me: I’ve made many friends and worked with many wonderful colleagues.
‘However, I feel that after 45 years of full-time broadcasting on BBC Radio it’s time for a change.
‘I would emphasise that this is totally my decision, but certain new chances have presented themselves, and I would want to continue my career in a little different manner in the next years, the details of which will be announced shortly.’
‘I will always be very proud of my association with the BBC and Radio 2 in particular and I’d like to thank everyone who has helped to make the mid-morning show a success.’ he said.
Bruce’s broadcasting career isn’t over, as he’ll be joining Greatest Hits Radio from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on April 3.
