Bob Harris to Exit BBC Radio 2 Following 56-Year Broadcasting Career

Veteran broadcaster Bob Harris has confirmed his departure from BBC Radio 2, a move that comes shortly after he disclosed that his prostate cancer has metastasized to his spine. The DJ, whose career began in 1970, expressed regret to his audience regarding the circumstances of his exit, stating, "I am so sorry that my health issues are forcing me to step down, but I realised that I must concentrate now on getting myself well again." He described the choice as "one of the hardest decisions of my entire life."

Harris’s journey in media began in the 1960s as a club DJ, eventually leading him to co-found the influential listings magazine Time Out. By 1972, he had secured the hosting role for the acclaimed television program Old Grey Whistle Test, cementing his status as a key advocate for emerging musical talent. Since 1996, he has been a staple of BBC Radio 2, primarily hosting the station’s Country Show. More recently, in 2024, he took over the Sounds of the 70s program from Johnny Walker.

In a heartfelt message shared across Radio 2’s social media platforms, the presenter, fondly referred to as "Whispering" Bob Harris, expressed his gratitude to the corporation and its audience. "It's incredible to think that my broadcasting career has spanned almost 56 years," he wrote. "I am very fortunate to have spent my entire working life doing something I love so much."

Harris highlighted his long-standing allegiance to the network, noting, "I am a massive BBC loyalist, and I'm grateful that I have always been given the freedom to build my programmes in my own way." He reflected on his professional achievements with pride, particularly his role in the rise of country music. "I am so proud that The Radio 2 Country Show has played such a massive part in propelling country to become the fastest growing music genre in the UK," he said. He also cherished his time presenting Sounds of the 70s on Sunday afternoons, calling it "the most special of my entire life."

Above all, Harris directed his appreciation toward his audience. "But more than anything, I want to say thank you to my listeners. I have put everything I have into every show I've ever done, and it's all been because of you. Your love and loyalty mean more to me than words can ever say."

Following his absence due to treatment, Shaun Keaveny and Darius Rucker have served as stand-ins for the Sound of the 70s and Country Show slots, respectively. Both will continue in these roles. Keaveny shared a tribute, stating, "It was the thrill of my life to meet Bob, the man who has done more to maintain the spirit of rock, roll and radio than almost anyone." He added, "I consider it not just an honour but a mission, to continue Bob's work of showing the world the greatness of the music of that special decade."

Keaveny concluded his message by honoring Harris’s impact: "Somewhere, every week, some kid hears Won't Get Fooled Again for the first time! You did that for me Bob, and millions like me. We'd like to say thank you for the music, you'll always be our Rock 'n' Roll Doctor."

Helen Thomas, the head of Radio 2, also honored Harris, praising him for filling the airwaves with "love, laughter and captivating stories." She noted that he is "adored by the Radio 2 family and his listeners," and that the station would miss his weekly contributions. "Everyone at Radio 2 sends Bob and his family our love and support," she said.

Harris’s battle with cancer is not new; he was first diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2007. Earlier this year, in April, he announced that the disease had spread to his spine. In a post on Instagram, he explained that he immediately started radiotherapy, a process that required a two-week hospital stay "to bring things back under control."

He shared an update on his current status, writing, "Thankfully I'm back at home now, on the pathway to recovery and feeling stronger every day." Harris also acknowledged the crucial role his family played during this period, thanking them for "being here for me in a massive way, helping me through one of the most difficult times of my life."

Source: BBC News Generated at: 2026-06-04 08:40:59 UTC