Colin Murray has been named as the permanent host of 'Countdown'.
Colin Murray is Countdown's new permanent host
The 45-year-old presenter has fronted the long-running Channel 4 daytime game show since Anne Robinson stepped down last summer and will now present the show on a full-time basis.
Speaking after the news was announced on 'Steph's Packed Lunch', Colin said: "It's a career dream to be named as permanent anchor of one of television's most iconic programmes.
"I have been a fan since day one, been part of the family over a decade, appearing on Dictionary Corner, and now I get the honour of guiding it into a fifth decade."
The BBC Radio 5 Live presenter continued: "However, I don't just want 'Countdown' to survive, I want it to thrive.
"During my caretaker stint we've seen more people tune back in, with close to a million watching the series final in December, and I want that to just be the beginning.
"'Countdown' is a special game show, and its stars will always be the letters and the numbers, but it's more than that.
"Great afternoon company for people of all ages from all across the UK."
Murray first presented 'Countdown' during the second coronavirus lockdown in England which left former host Nick Hewer, 78, unable to travel to the set. He then fronted the show on a "caretaker" basis following Robinson's departure last July.
Channel 4's head of daytime and feature, Jo Street, said that the broadcaster had "listened to the fans" by keeping Colin as the permanent host.
She said: "We have listened to the fans.
"Many have written in to let us know how much they love Colin on the show, and so I am delighted to be able to confirm that he is staying in the hot seat alongside lexicographer Susie Dent and maths whiz Rachel Riley MBE."
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