Bradley Walsh has announced he will not return as host of the BBC series Blankety Blank when it comes back this year, citing a lack of time.
Hosting History
Blankety Blank, one of Britain's longest-running game shows, first launched in 1979 on BBC1 with the late Terry Wogan. Les Dawson hosted from 1984 to 1990, followed by Paul O'Grady as Lily Savage, and then David Walliams for the 2016 Christmas special. Walsh first hosted the festive episode in 2020, leading to a full revival in 2021.
Walsh's Statement
The 66-year-old told Radio Times: 'I just don't have the time, which is sad because I've loved Blankety Blank. It's been one of my favourite shows, and it's been brilliant.' He added: 'Blankety Blank has been brilliant. It really makes me laugh. It's the most fun you can have in the studio, and I just cannot at the moment work on it.' Walsh explained his schedule: 'I would normally go to studio October, but I'm all taken up in October and November, so I just haven't time to do it. Maybe next year.'
Other Commitments
Walsh is one of the busiest men in showbusiness, working with his son Barney on programmes including Gladiators and Bradley Walsh & Son: Breaking Dad. He also fronts The Chase – a role he has held since 2009 – as well as the spin-off series Beat The Chasers. He spoke to Radio Times while promoting The Chase Around The World, another spin-off where teams solve clues to track him and the Chasers down for a £100,000 prize.
