Tess Daly supports husband Vernon Kay in move away from BBC Radio 2

1 month ago 14

Vernon Kay is set to make a big move away from his BBC Radio 2 morning show later this year – after facing backlash from Ken Bruce fans for taking over the hosting role

Tess and Vernon

Vernon Kay is set to star in Aladdin at the Wycombe Swan later this year, in a move supported by Tess Daly (

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Vernon Kay has firmly established himself as the host of a weekday morning show on BBC Radio 2, despite initial controversy surrounding his appointment. The 50 year old star took over from radio icon Ken Bruce in May last year, facing backlash from Ken's fans and losing 1.3 million listeners in the process, reports OK!.

Ken, 73, had previously announced he was stepping down from his mid-morning show after a 31-year stint, moving to Greatest Hits Radio. This sparked negative comments, with Ken's fans claiming Vernon was too young for the role. "It's the best trolling I've ever had," he confessed at the time. However, earlier this year, Vernon revealed a significant career shift away from Radio 2, as he's set to return to the British stage playing Wishee Washee in the Wycombe Swan's production of Aladdin.

For use in UK, Ireland or Benelux countries only Undated BBC handout photo of Vernon Kay who has promised it will be "more of the same" ahead of his first mid-morning weekday BBC Radio 2 show today. Issue date: Monday May 15, 2023. PA Photo. The TV presenter, 49, will take over the slot from veteran broadcaster Ken Bruce, who helmed the programme for 31 years. See PA story SHOWBIZ Kay. Photo credit should read: BBC/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: Not for use more than 21 days after issue. You may use this picture without charge only for the purpose of publicising or reporting on current BBC programming, personnel or other BBC output or activity within 21 days of issue. Any use after that time MUST be cleared through BBC Picture Publicity. Please credit the image to the BBC and any named photographer or independent programme maker, as described in the caption. (

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This follows his panto debut in Cinderella in 2022, where he scooped the Best Panto Newcomer award at the UK Pantomime Awards for his portrayal of Dandini. Vernon has the full support of his wife Tess Daly and their daughters for the show, which promises "a dazzling brand-new digital set using LED screens with animated scenes and mesmerising effects plus all of the usual ingredients you would expect to see for a truly memorable pantomime."

Vernon announced: "Yep, they'll be coming along. I think the last time I did it, the kids were there every other show."

LONDON, ENGLAND - JULY 18: (L to R) Vernon Kay, Phoebe Elizabeth Kay and Tess Daly attend the UK Launch of 'Gin & Juice By Dre and Snoop' at Flipper's Roller Boogie Palace on July 18, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Dave Benett/ Getty Images for Gin & Juice by Dre and Snoop) (

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Dave Benett/ Getty Images for Gi)

He also shared how involved his family got previously, saying: "Our eldest daughter knew the words better than me! She came out socialising with the cast and all that kind of stuff, and that was really good."

Vernon revealed the decision to return to panto was a group choice, stating: "And that's one of the main reasons why I'm coming back and doing it again, because we had a big family meeting and I said, 'What do you think about panto? ' And it was unanimous, all the kids and Tess were like, 'Yep, you've got to do it'."

In a statement for the show, Vernon added: "The Master of the dad Joke is back! I'm so excited to be returning to the Wycombe Swan, my local theatre, in Aladdin this year. It's a fantastic story, an absolute classic. I'm looking forward to getting back on stage for all the panto madness. Great song and dance, lots of audience interaction and amazing slapstick. Expect a whole lot of high paced, high tempo full of energy and blink and you miss it action. I'll see you there! ".

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