Vernon Kay's Radio 2 show has been named the most listened to in the UK, according to new data from Rajar. The presenter, 52, hosts the mid-morning slot on Radio 2, which airs weekdays from 9:30am to 12:00pm, a role he took over from Ken Bruce in 2023.
Record figures for Radio 2
Radio 2 remains the country's most popular station, with 12 million weekly listeners. Helen Thomas, head of Radio 2, said: "I’m delighted that Radio 2 remains the UK’s most popular single radio station in the UK. People are tuning in for over 11 hours each week, which is almost a four-year high."
She added: "Congratulations to Vernon Kay, who hosts the UK’s most listened to radio show with a weekly audience of 6.8 million, his highest figure since 2024."
Overall, radio listening has increased by 2 million since 2022, reaching a record high of 51 million listeners.
Emotional moment on air
The success comes after Vernon halted his show last week, breaking down in tears during an interview with The Script's Danny O'Donoghue, who spoke about his late bandmate.
The news also follows the announcement that Vernon and his wife Tess Daly, who have been married for 22 years, have separated. The couple, who have two daughters, Phoebe, 21, and Amber, 16, revealed their split in May with a joint statement on Instagram.
The statement read: "After much consideration, and with a deep sense of care and respect for one another, we have made the decision to separate amicably. This has not been an easy choice, but it comes from a place of mutual understanding and a shared desire for what is best for both of us. We remain great friends and most importantly, fully committed to our roles as loving and supportive parents, which will always be our priority."
It continued: "There are no other parties involved in this decision. We kindly ask for privacy during this time as we navigate this transition together. We will not be making any further public comments. Tess and Vernon."
Amicable split
Reports suggest the couple are planning a 'quickie divorce' and are still living together. They were spotted together at Pub in the Park just 10 days after the split, appearing in high spirits. An onlooker told The Sun: "Tess and Vernon seemed super-relaxed in each other’s company despite the news of their split. It's clear to see that they are still very much happy around one another and there’s been none of this messy split business. They chatted to fans, posed for selfies and had a well-earned boogie."
At Wimbledon in July, Tess was still seen wearing her wedding ring, indicating no animosity between the pair.
