Veteran broadcaster Bob Harris has announced he will step down from his BBC Radio 2 programmes, Sounds Of The 70s and The Radio 2 Country Show, due to ongoing health struggles. The 80-year-old, who has been battling prostate cancer that recently spread to his upper spine, described the decision as one of the most difficult he has ever faced.
A Career Spanning Nearly Six Decades
Harris, whose broadcasting career has lasted almost 56 years, expressed his gratitude to listeners and colleagues. "It's incredible to think that my broadcasting career has spanned almost 56 years," he said. "I am very fortunate to have spent my entire working life doing something I love so much." He added that he is a "massive BBC loyalist" and appreciates the creative freedom he was given to build his programmes.
Harris took over Sounds Of The 70s from Johnnie Walker in 2024 and has been a passionate advocate for country, folk, and Americana music. He played a key role in the genre's growth in the UK, with the Radio 2 Country Show helping to make country music the fastest-growing genre in the nation.
Health Challenges and Emotional Farewell
In his statement, Harris said: "I am so sorry that my health issues are forcing me to step down, but I realise that I must concentrate on getting myself well again. This has been one of the hardest decisions of my life, but I would never want to be doing programmes knowing that I am unable to give you 100%." He thanked listeners for their "love and loyalty," saying, "I am going to miss you, and I love you very much."
Helen Thomas, Head of Radio 2, hailed Harris as "a true radio legend" and offered a "sincere thank you." She noted that Harris has hosted The Radio 2 Country Show since 1999, becoming a trusted tastemaker as the genre exploded in popularity. "Bob is adored by the Radio 2 family and his listeners, and we are all going to miss him and his weekly shows very much," she added.
Successors Announced
Harris presented his final Sounds Of The 70s on Sunday, March 8, and his last Country Show on Thursday, April 2. Shaun Keaveny will officially take over Sounds Of The 70s on Sundays from 3-5pm, in addition to hosting the Radio 2 Rock Show on Friday nights. Keaveny said: "As long as I can remember, I've loved the music of the 70s. It was the thrill of my life to meet Bob, the man who has done more to maintain the spirit of rock, roll and radio than almost anyone." Darius Rucker will continue to host The Radio 2 Country Show on Thursdays from 9-10pm in the interim.
A Legacy of Music
Harris's career includes notable roles on Radio 1, BBC Six Music, and television, including his celebrated tenure on the award-winning BBC music show Old Grey Whistle Test during the 1970s. He has introduced generations of listeners to emerging talent and established stars. BBC Radio 2 celebrated his 80th birthday in April with a special programme, Bob Harris At 80: A Life In Music.
