Richard Osman reveals he's leaving Pointless after 13 years
He's released a statement
Last updated 8th Apr 2022
Along with ITV game show The Chase, BBC's Pointless is one of the longest-running tea time quiz shows, mainly thanks to its hosts Alexander Armstrong and Richard Osman.
However, after 13 amazing years on the hit show, quiz master Richard has announced he's sadly leaving to concentrate on writing.
Taking to Twitter on Friday 8th April, Richard told fans: 'After 13 wonderful years I'm leaving daytime Pointless, to concentrate on writing. Will still be doing the celebrity shows and 'HouseOfGames'. It has been the GREATEST pleasure and I can't wait to start watching as a viewer. Thank you to everyone! ❤️
'Am very, very, very touched by all of your replies, thank you. ❤️'. (sic)
51-year-old Richard went on to add: 'Will miss the whole team, especially the incomparable @XanderArmstrong. Thank you to everyone who watches, it really has been a dream, and I know the show will continue to go from strength to strength.' (sic)
The BBC have now confirmed Alexander Armstrong will be joined by a number of guest presenters for episodes later in the year, but these names are yet to be revealed.
In a statement, Richard said of his departure: “Pointless has been a joy from start to finish, working alongside my friend Alexander Armstrong, backed by the most wonderful team, and for the best viewers in the world. I will miss everyone so much, but I'm thrilled that I'll still be presenting the celebrity shows. I can't thank everyone enough for twelve amazing years.”
Alexander added: “Daytime television’s loss is international best-selling crime fiction’s gain. I say that like it’s a consolation - I’m going to miss the big man next to me Monday to Friday. But at least I still get him at weekends - and weekdays if you’re watching on Challenge.”
Both Richard and Alexander have hosted the popular quiz show since 2009, and in 2021 and 2022, Pointless was BBC One’s number one highest rating daytime quiz and game show.
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It's not all bad news, as Richard will still appear on the celebrity editions of Pointless.
Pointless continues every weekday on BBC One at 5pm.
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