Richard Osman presented his final episode of BBC Two's House of Games on Friday, 2 October, delivering a heartfelt farewell to viewers before Michael Sheen takes over as host from Monday, 5 October.
The 55-year-old announced earlier this year that he would be leaving the programme after nine years, saying it was 'time to let someone else have a go.'
Osman's farewell message
Before the show concluded, Osman told viewers: "All of the crew, they're wonderful people, you're going to have a new host next week, if you keep watching until after the credits, you're going to see who it is. You might know who it is anyway."
He added: "I want to thank the incredible crew. If you're worried about next week, I promise you, this show is House of Games, not because of me, but because of these incredible people. So, you're in very, very safe hands with this new host as well."
Osman went on to say: "From me to you, thank you for watching. That's the real pleasure of this show, it's you, it's the viewers and people watching with their family and all sorts of things and all sorts of nonsense going on in the world, but you know you got half an hour of silliness going on here. From me, to you, thank you."
He then thanked his final celebrity guests, acknowledging that viewers would be tuning in on Monday without him, though he added: "But, I will be watching with you, thank you."
Viewer and Sheen reactions
Sharing the farewell on Instagram, Osman wrote: "The very fondest of farewells to #HouseOfGames, it really has been a treat from start to finish. I can't wait to watch @mablilyradad taking the hot seat from Monday. And who knows, maybe I'll even turn up as a contestant one day? Thank you for all the love yesterday, and over the years."
Viewers responded with emotion. One said: "I cried, thank you, sir, thank you (also loved Nola's note to you!)" Another commented: "I had tears in my eyes watching this and had to rewind and watch it again to compose myself. You will be missed so much, and it would be amazing to see you as a contestant one day."
Sheen, who succeeds Osman, remarked: "Thank you so much for all your brilliance, kindness and care, Richard. What an achievement! I promise to look after the place xxx"
Sheen on taking over
The Welsh actor was recently confirmed as Osman's successor, admitting to feeling both apprehensive and enthusiastic when first approached to host the quiz programme.
He said: "It's something I watch every day. I've long been complaining about why no one had asked me to be on it, I was slightly outraged by that. But then, when I was asked if I'd be interested in hosting it, I was really excited but also nervous because, you know, it was so synonymous with Richard. Richard did such an amazing job with it."
He continued: "The thought of anyone taking over from Richard was, you know, something that I would be one of the people complaining about, if it hadn't been me! So, it was a mixture of excitement and a nervousness. Once I got over my initial fear, I was incredibly excited and honoured to be asked. Hugely honoured."
House of Games continues weeknights on BBC Two from 6pm.
