Scandi podcast major PodX has bought the UK’s Platform Media in an eight-figure deal.
The highly-acquisitive PodX said the move for a majority stake in Platform will be the UK podcast market’s “most significant deal ever by the time it completes in full.” The deal is also the Stockholm-based company’s largest, and is its third in the UK.
Platform Media was founded three years ago by Matthew Sherry and Matt Sayward and its original content label, Folding Pocket, makes the likes of The Good, The Bad & The Rugby, Football’s Greatest with Jeff Stelling and The Fast & The Curious. The company also advises brands on strategy and has worked with companies including Amazon Music, Audible and the BBC.
With more than 50 members of staff and its own studio in London, Platform will continue to be led by Sherry, Sayward and executive director Rick Ankers. It has hired...
The highly-acquisitive PodX said the move for a majority stake in Platform will be the UK podcast market’s “most significant deal ever by the time it completes in full.” The deal is also the Stockholm-based company’s largest, and is its third in the UK.
Platform Media was founded three years ago by Matthew Sherry and Matt Sayward and its original content label, Folding Pocket, makes the likes of The Good, The Bad & The Rugby, Football’s Greatest with Jeff Stelling and The Fast & The Curious. The company also advises brands on strategy and has worked with companies including Amazon Music, Audible and the BBC.
With more than 50 members of staff and its own studio in London, Platform will continue to be led by Sherry, Sayward and executive director Rick Ankers. It has hired...
- 5/20/2024
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Platform Media, the UK’s next-generation media company, has today announced its majority acquisition by global podcast group PodX. This is the largest acquisition the Stockholm-based company has made to date. It is also set to be the UK podcast market’s most significant deal ever by the time it completes in full, with the initial valuation surpassing eight figures.
Founded in 2021 by Matthew Sherry and Matt Sayward in conjunction with the 21six Group, Platform Media delivers production, distribution and monetisation all under one roof. Its original content label Folding Pocket has produced some of the UK’s biggest podcasts, including The Good, The Bad & The Rugby; Football’s Greatest with Jeff Stelling; The Fast & The Curious; Ami Charlize’s Private Story; The 3Am Club with Caitlin and Leah; My Mate’s A Footballer with Patrick Bamford and Joe Wilkinson for BBC Sounds and Amazon’s Three Little Words starring John Bishop.
Founded in 2021 by Matthew Sherry and Matt Sayward in conjunction with the 21six Group, Platform Media delivers production, distribution and monetisation all under one roof. Its original content label Folding Pocket has produced some of the UK’s biggest podcasts, including The Good, The Bad & The Rugby; Football’s Greatest with Jeff Stelling; The Fast & The Curious; Ami Charlize’s Private Story; The 3Am Club with Caitlin and Leah; My Mate’s A Footballer with Patrick Bamford and Joe Wilkinson for BBC Sounds and Amazon’s Three Little Words starring John Bishop.
- 5/20/2024
- Podnews.net
Richard Osman’s House of Games Season 7 Episode 80 Redemption Week 1 Airs February 2 2024 on BBC Two
On Friday, February 2nd, 2024, at 6:00 Pm, BBC Two is set to air an exciting episode of “Richard Osman’s House of Games,” titled “Redemption Week 1.” This episode marks the beginning of a special week in the popular quiz show where previous players get a chance for redemption.
The episode sees the return of former contestants Babatunde Aléshé, Sophie Duker, Gaby Roslin, and Jeff Stelling. Each of these players brings their own unique style and wit to the show, having already proven themselves as formidable competitors in their previous appearances. Their familiarity with the game’s format adds an extra layer of competitiveness to this week’s episodes.
Quiz legend and host Richard Osman, known for his sharp humor and deep trivia knowledge, has selected a series of challenging and entertaining quiz rounds for the contestants. The mix of different rounds ensures a dynamic and unpredictable game, keeping both the players and the audience engaged.
The episode sees the return of former contestants Babatunde Aléshé, Sophie Duker, Gaby Roslin, and Jeff Stelling. Each of these players brings their own unique style and wit to the show, having already proven themselves as formidable competitors in their previous appearances. Their familiarity with the game’s format adds an extra layer of competitiveness to this week’s episodes.
Quiz legend and host Richard Osman, known for his sharp humor and deep trivia knowledge, has selected a series of challenging and entertaining quiz rounds for the contestants. The mix of different rounds ensures a dynamic and unpredictable game, keeping both the players and the audience engaged.
- 1/27/2024
- by Posts UK
- TV Everyday
Legendary football broadcaster Jeff Stelling is launching his debut football podcast Football’s Greatest. Across forty weekly episodes, Jeff will talk to 121 of the most successful footballers the game has ever seen, including European Cup Winners Cup’ winner Paul Merson, Champions League winner James Milner, Double winner and former Germany Captain Michael Ballack, Scotland and Celtic legend Charlie Nicholas, former England manager Glenn Hoddle, and World Cup Winner Sir Geoff Hurst.
- 12/28/2023
- by PodcastingToday
- Podcastingtoday
Rachel Riley has been made an MBE in the New Year Honours list for her efforts in raising Holocaust awareness and combatting antisemitism.
The Countdown star and mathemetician, whose mother is Jewish, has been honoured for her services to Holocaust education as an avid campaigner.
Riley was a vocal critic of Labour’s handling of alleged antisemitism within the party and Jeremy Corbyn’s conduct while leader.
The 36-year-old Oxford University graduate took over from Carol Vorderman as co-host of Channel 4's Countdown in 2009, after Vorderman stepped down from the role she had held since the show began in 1982.
Her tenure as the resident number cruncher, beginning when she was just 22, has seen her work alongside presenters Jeff Stelling, Nick Hewer, Anne Robinson and Colin Murray.
In January 2019, she made a speech at a Westminster reception for the Holocaust Educational Trust addressing the abuse she received on social media as a public figure.
The Countdown star and mathemetician, whose mother is Jewish, has been honoured for her services to Holocaust education as an avid campaigner.
Riley was a vocal critic of Labour’s handling of alleged antisemitism within the party and Jeremy Corbyn’s conduct while leader.
The 36-year-old Oxford University graduate took over from Carol Vorderman as co-host of Channel 4's Countdown in 2009, after Vorderman stepped down from the role she had held since the show began in 1982.
Her tenure as the resident number cruncher, beginning when she was just 22, has seen her work alongside presenters Jeff Stelling, Nick Hewer, Anne Robinson and Colin Murray.
In January 2019, she made a speech at a Westminster reception for the Holocaust Educational Trust addressing the abuse she received on social media as a public figure.
- 12/30/2022
- by Roisin O'Connor
- The Independent - TV
Rachel Riley has been made an MBE in the New Year Honours list for her efforts in raising Holocaust awareness and combatting antisemitism.
The Countdown star and mathemetician, whose mother is Jewish, has been honoured for her services to Holocaust education as an avid campaigner.
Riley was a vocal critic of Labour’s handling of alleged antisemitism within the party and Jeremy Corbyn’s conduct while leader.
The 36-year-old Oxford University graduate took over from Carol Vorderman as co-host of Channel 4's Countdown in 2009, after Vorderman stepped down from the role she had held since the show began in 1982.
Her tenure as the resident number cruncher, beginning when she was just 22, has seen her work alongside presenters Jeff Stelling, Nick Hewer, Anne Robinson and Colin Murray.
In January 2019, she made a speech at a Westminster reception for the Holocaust Educational Trust addressing the abuse she received on social media as a public figure.
The Countdown star and mathemetician, whose mother is Jewish, has been honoured for her services to Holocaust education as an avid campaigner.
Riley was a vocal critic of Labour’s handling of alleged antisemitism within the party and Jeremy Corbyn’s conduct while leader.
The 36-year-old Oxford University graduate took over from Carol Vorderman as co-host of Channel 4's Countdown in 2009, after Vorderman stepped down from the role she had held since the show began in 1982.
Her tenure as the resident number cruncher, beginning when she was just 22, has seen her work alongside presenters Jeff Stelling, Nick Hewer, Anne Robinson and Colin Murray.
In January 2019, she made a speech at a Westminster reception for the Holocaust Educational Trust addressing the abuse she received on social media as a public figure.
- 12/30/2022
- by Roisin O'Connor
- The Independent - TV
Rachel Riley has been made an MBE in the New Year Honours list for her efforts in raising Holocaust awareness and combatting antisemitism.
The Countdown star and mathemetician, whose mother is Jewish, has been honoured for her services to Holocaust education as an avid campaigner.
Riley was a vocal critic of Labour’s handling of alleged antisemitism within the party and Jeremy Corbyn’s conduct while leader.
The 36-year-old Oxford University graduate took over from Carol Vorderman as co-host of Channel 4's Countdown in 2009, after Vorderman stepped down from the role she had held since the show began in 1982.
Riley’s tenure as the resident number cruncher, which began when she was just 22, has seen her work alongside presenters Jeff Stelling, Nick Hewer, Anne Robinson, and Colin Murray.
In January 2019, she made a speech at a Westminster reception for the Holocaust Educational Trust addressing the abuse she received on...
The Countdown star and mathemetician, whose mother is Jewish, has been honoured for her services to Holocaust education as an avid campaigner.
Riley was a vocal critic of Labour’s handling of alleged antisemitism within the party and Jeremy Corbyn’s conduct while leader.
The 36-year-old Oxford University graduate took over from Carol Vorderman as co-host of Channel 4's Countdown in 2009, after Vorderman stepped down from the role she had held since the show began in 1982.
Riley’s tenure as the resident number cruncher, which began when she was just 22, has seen her work alongside presenters Jeff Stelling, Nick Hewer, Anne Robinson, and Colin Murray.
In January 2019, she made a speech at a Westminster reception for the Holocaust Educational Trust addressing the abuse she received on...
- 12/30/2022
- by Roisin O'Connor
- The Independent - TV
This article contains spoilers for Ted Lasso season 2 episode 2.
Ted Lasso’s Roy Kent (Brett Goldstein) and Keeley Jones (Juno Temple) are a special kind of TV couple. Like other character pairings on Bill Lawrence-produced shows before them, Roy and Keeley reject the “will they or won’t they” sitcom binary.
Instead these are two adults who share an intense emotional and physical connection and who are bound and determined to make an adult relationship work. The show has already borne the fruit of their efforts. After a touching conclusion to season 1, Roy and Keeley’s dynamic got even more acute in season 2’s first episode. The soft-spoken ex-footballer, emboldened by the relationship with his better half, passionately informs Rebecca Welton (Hannah Waddingham) that she should never, ever settle.
It was a monologue that indicated just how far Roy and Keeley have come (and one that got basically half...
Ted Lasso’s Roy Kent (Brett Goldstein) and Keeley Jones (Juno Temple) are a special kind of TV couple. Like other character pairings on Bill Lawrence-produced shows before them, Roy and Keeley reject the “will they or won’t they” sitcom binary.
Instead these are two adults who share an intense emotional and physical connection and who are bound and determined to make an adult relationship work. The show has already borne the fruit of their efforts. After a touching conclusion to season 1, Roy and Keeley’s dynamic got even more acute in season 2’s first episode. The soft-spoken ex-footballer, emboldened by the relationship with his better half, passionately informs Rebecca Welton (Hannah Waddingham) that she should never, ever settle.
It was a monologue that indicated just how far Roy and Keeley have come (and one that got basically half...
- 7/30/2021
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
Matt Le Tissier was on Countdown today (September 30), and he surprised a lot of people by winning with an impressive 105 points.
He was joined by fellow ex-footballer Graeme Le Saux, who was in Dictionary Corner.
Here's a selection of some of the online bafflement that accompanied the appearances:
So, Matt Le Tissier was a contestant on @C4Countdown today. And Graeme Le Saux was in Dictionary Corner #noreally pic.twitter.com/hRMKczgGze
— Paul Jones (@Jonesvision) September 30, 2015
Watching Matt Le Tissier as a contestant on Countdown is like watching Robbie Savage being asked to conduct an orchestra. Really odd.
— Joe Taylor (@jpttaylor) September 30, 2015
Wow Matt Le Tissier is a contestant on Countdown today... actual Matt Le Tissier, actual contestant, actual Countdown
— Ruth John (@Rumyra) September 30, 2015
Matt Le Tissier is on countdown beating some fat nerd for anyone who's arsed
— Mescalèro Moore (@SMooron) September 30, 2015
Turns out Matt Le Tissier is an excellent #Countdown player.
He was joined by fellow ex-footballer Graeme Le Saux, who was in Dictionary Corner.
Here's a selection of some of the online bafflement that accompanied the appearances:
So, Matt Le Tissier was a contestant on @C4Countdown today. And Graeme Le Saux was in Dictionary Corner #noreally pic.twitter.com/hRMKczgGze
— Paul Jones (@Jonesvision) September 30, 2015
Watching Matt Le Tissier as a contestant on Countdown is like watching Robbie Savage being asked to conduct an orchestra. Really odd.
— Joe Taylor (@jpttaylor) September 30, 2015
Wow Matt Le Tissier is a contestant on Countdown today... actual Matt Le Tissier, actual contestant, actual Countdown
— Ruth John (@Rumyra) September 30, 2015
Matt Le Tissier is on countdown beating some fat nerd for anyone who's arsed
— Mescalèro Moore (@SMooron) September 30, 2015
Turns out Matt Le Tissier is an excellent #Countdown player.
- 9/30/2015
- Digital Spy
WhatCulture
Steve McClaren will “please the Toon Army” by playing an “exciting, fast-paced” brand of attacking football with Newcastle United, believes Sky Sports presenter Jeff Stelling.
The Soccer Saturday host, who hails from the North East and is a huge Hartlepool United fan, admits to having “a lot of time” for ex-England boss McClaren and predicts he will do “okay” with the Magpies this year.
Newcastle began their 2015-16 Barclays Premier League campaign with an exciting 2-2 home draw against Southampton on Sunday and, although they looked good going forward, the same old defensive frailties continued to plague the Magpies.
Daniel Hambury/Empics Sport
But, while raising awareness of prostate cancer in the UK, Stelling told The Chronicle:
“I’ve got a lot of time for Steve McClaren. He did brilliantly abroad again.
“He’s been given a little bit of money to spend (at Newcastle), which is a big plus point.
Steve McClaren will “please the Toon Army” by playing an “exciting, fast-paced” brand of attacking football with Newcastle United, believes Sky Sports presenter Jeff Stelling.
The Soccer Saturday host, who hails from the North East and is a huge Hartlepool United fan, admits to having “a lot of time” for ex-England boss McClaren and predicts he will do “okay” with the Magpies this year.
Newcastle began their 2015-16 Barclays Premier League campaign with an exciting 2-2 home draw against Southampton on Sunday and, although they looked good going forward, the same old defensive frailties continued to plague the Magpies.
Daniel Hambury/Empics Sport
But, while raising awareness of prostate cancer in the UK, Stelling told The Chronicle:
“I’ve got a lot of time for Steve McClaren. He did brilliantly abroad again.
“He’s been given a little bit of money to spend (at Newcastle), which is a big plus point.
- 8/11/2015
- by Chris Waugh
- Obsessed with Film
Coronation Street and Strictly Come Dancing have both picked up prizes at the Television and Radio Industries Club (Tric) Awards 2015.
The ITV soap picked up the TV Soap of the Year prize ahead of rivals EastEnders and Hollyoaks, while Strictly triumphed over The Voice UK and Britain's Got Talent in the Reality Programme category.
EastEnders' Danny Dyer won the Soap Personality prize, while Gogglebox won Entertainment Programme, and Downton Abbey was named HD Drama Programme of the Year.
Ant and Dec beat Keith Lemon and Graham Norton to win TV Personality of the Year, and Silent Witness won Crime Programme of the Year.
Meanwhile, Match of the Day was the recipient of this year's Tric Special Award.
Take a look at the full winners' list below:
HD Sports Programme
A Question of Sport - Winner
BBC Formula 1
Soccer Saturday
Digital Radio Personality
Chris Evans - Winner
Fearne Cotton
Nicky Campbell...
The ITV soap picked up the TV Soap of the Year prize ahead of rivals EastEnders and Hollyoaks, while Strictly triumphed over The Voice UK and Britain's Got Talent in the Reality Programme category.
EastEnders' Danny Dyer won the Soap Personality prize, while Gogglebox won Entertainment Programme, and Downton Abbey was named HD Drama Programme of the Year.
Ant and Dec beat Keith Lemon and Graham Norton to win TV Personality of the Year, and Silent Witness won Crime Programme of the Year.
Meanwhile, Match of the Day was the recipient of this year's Tric Special Award.
Take a look at the full winners' list below:
HD Sports Programme
A Question of Sport - Winner
BBC Formula 1
Soccer Saturday
Digital Radio Personality
Chris Evans - Winner
Fearne Cotton
Nicky Campbell...
- 3/10/2015
- Digital Spy
The Soccer Saturday team were forced to evacuate the studio after a fire alarm went off during this morning's (January 17) live broadcast.
Sky Sports viewers were without Jeff Stelling and the show's pundits for nearly 30 minutes while the fire brigade were called to investigate.
The Soccer Saturday team explained the situation on Twitter, before host Jeff Stelling returned to the studio wearing a fire helmet.
Sorry folks, the Soccer Saturday team have had to evacuate the studio following a fire alarm. Jeff is currently trying to put the fire out!
— Soccer Saturday (@SoccerSaturday) January 17, 2015
"It's pretty warm in here," the presenter joked.
"There's been a fire alarm going off and we've all had to evacuate the building, but it's ok now, I sorted it out."...
Sky Sports viewers were without Jeff Stelling and the show's pundits for nearly 30 minutes while the fire brigade were called to investigate.
The Soccer Saturday team explained the situation on Twitter, before host Jeff Stelling returned to the studio wearing a fire helmet.
Sorry folks, the Soccer Saturday team have had to evacuate the studio following a fire alarm. Jeff is currently trying to put the fire out!
— Soccer Saturday (@SoccerSaturday) January 17, 2015
"It's pretty warm in here," the presenter joked.
"There's been a fire alarm going off and we've all had to evacuate the building, but it's ok now, I sorted it out."...
- 1/17/2015
- Digital Spy
Countdown celebrates its 6,000th show today (September 5) by receiving an award from Guinness World Records.
The Channel 4 programme has aired the most series for a TV game show, and is awarded the prize from an official Guinness World Records adjudicator.
Countdown was the first ever show broadcast on Channel 4 when it launched in November 1982, and has gone on to air 70 series.
Presenter Nick Hewer said: "It is a huge honour to front Countdown, now recognised by Guinness World Records for its longevity.
"Having 32 years under its belt, I am only a novice, coming up to three years on the show. But, I and the whole team, am incredibly proud to be part of such a durable and intelligent format that relies on intellect rather than prize money."
Rachel Riley added: "I'm proud to be part of such a great show that not only has its place in British psyche...
The Channel 4 programme has aired the most series for a TV game show, and is awarded the prize from an official Guinness World Records adjudicator.
Countdown was the first ever show broadcast on Channel 4 when it launched in November 1982, and has gone on to air 70 series.
Presenter Nick Hewer said: "It is a huge honour to front Countdown, now recognised by Guinness World Records for its longevity.
"Having 32 years under its belt, I am only a novice, coming up to three years on the show. But, I and the whole team, am incredibly proud to be part of such a durable and intelligent format that relies on intellect rather than prize money."
Rachel Riley added: "I'm proud to be part of such a great show that not only has its place in British psyche...
- 9/5/2014
- Digital Spy
Safc.com
For some, the summer is a thing of beauty; long days of sunshine, trips to the beach, and walks in the park. But for football fans, this time of year is a living hell as we eagerly await the return of Jeff Stelling and Dan Walker and some sense of normality to return to our otherwise dark and uneventful lives.
As it stand, we are currently stuck in the middle of 34 long and uninspiring days between the World Cup Final ending, and the start of the Barclays Premier League season on Saturday 16th August, and fans are becoming increasingly desperate for a football fix.
Some will choose to while those 816 hours down by going to festivals, maybe taking a little holiday, or perhaps sticking that well worn out DVD of that famous 3-0 victory in the player just one more time and reminiscing. Others however, pour over the...
For some, the summer is a thing of beauty; long days of sunshine, trips to the beach, and walks in the park. But for football fans, this time of year is a living hell as we eagerly await the return of Jeff Stelling and Dan Walker and some sense of normality to return to our otherwise dark and uneventful lives.
As it stand, we are currently stuck in the middle of 34 long and uninspiring days between the World Cup Final ending, and the start of the Barclays Premier League season on Saturday 16th August, and fans are becoming increasingly desperate for a football fix.
Some will choose to while those 816 hours down by going to festivals, maybe taking a little holiday, or perhaps sticking that well worn out DVD of that famous 3-0 victory in the player just one more time and reminiscing. Others however, pour over the...
- 7/26/2014
- by DSG
- Obsessed with Film
To mark the release of Soccer Saturday: Cheers, Jeers and Tears on November 11th we’ve been given 3 copies to give away on DVD.
From Anchor Bay UK, just in time for Christmas, comes the first ever DVD from the UK’s best loved football show – Soccer Saturday; Cheers, Jeers and Tears, on DVD 11th November.
Revel in 20 years of the show’s funniest football banter Plus footage produced exclusively for this DVD. All of the golden moments have been painstakingly brought together and are presented by the legend himself – Jeff Stelling.
Join in all the fun with Jeff, Kammy and the rest of the team. The ultimate gift for any self-respecting football fan And the ultimate stocking filler.
Please note: This competition is open to UK residents only
a Rafflecopter giveaway
The Small Print
Open to UK residents only The competition will close 11th November at 23.59 GMT The winner...
From Anchor Bay UK, just in time for Christmas, comes the first ever DVD from the UK’s best loved football show – Soccer Saturday; Cheers, Jeers and Tears, on DVD 11th November.
Revel in 20 years of the show’s funniest football banter Plus footage produced exclusively for this DVD. All of the golden moments have been painstakingly brought together and are presented by the legend himself – Jeff Stelling.
Join in all the fun with Jeff, Kammy and the rest of the team. The ultimate gift for any self-respecting football fan And the ultimate stocking filler.
Please note: This competition is open to UK residents only
a Rafflecopter giveaway
The Small Print
Open to UK residents only The competition will close 11th November at 23.59 GMT The winner...
- 10/18/2013
- by Competitions
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Sky Sports 1 will be made available for free on the first day of the 2013/14 Premier League football season.
On Saturday, August 17, the channel will replace Sky 2 (on Sky and other pay TV services) and Pick TV (on Freeview and YouView).
> Jamie Carragher interview: 'Steven Gerrard won't get special treatment'
Managing director of Sky Sports Barney Francis said: "It's our biggest ever season of Premier League football and we're inviting every home in Britain to enjoy the opening day.
"All fans can join the action as we launch our new Saturday schedule for the most eagerly awaited Premier League season in years."
Pundit Jamie Redknapp added: "This is a brilliant way for everyone to follow the action from the first day of the Premier League season with Sky Sports."
The announcement marks the relaunch of the Sky Sports weekend - which includes Sky's 5.30pm Saturday evening Premier League fixture as part of Saturday Night Football.
On Saturday, August 17, the channel will replace Sky 2 (on Sky and other pay TV services) and Pick TV (on Freeview and YouView).
> Jamie Carragher interview: 'Steven Gerrard won't get special treatment'
Managing director of Sky Sports Barney Francis said: "It's our biggest ever season of Premier League football and we're inviting every home in Britain to enjoy the opening day.
"All fans can join the action as we launch our new Saturday schedule for the most eagerly awaited Premier League season in years."
Pundit Jamie Redknapp added: "This is a brilliant way for everyone to follow the action from the first day of the Premier League season with Sky Sports."
The announcement marks the relaunch of the Sky Sports weekend - which includes Sky's 5.30pm Saturday evening Premier League fixture as part of Saturday Night Football.
- 6/27/2013
- Digital Spy
Nick Hewer made light of reports that Countdown might be axed in the near future at today's (April 30) Apprentice launch in London.
Hewer, who took over as host of the long-running Channel 4 quiz show last year, actually made a joke to journalists when asked about rumours that the show was coming to an end.
"I've got a contract right through until 2014. So to be honest with you, I'd be sad... but I'd be in the money," he said.
Hewer's Apprentice co-star Lord Sugar laughed: "That's 25 years of training [from me]."
Hewer described Countdown as a "great institution" when he took over the helm from Jeff Stelling last year.
"It's not unlike the monarchy or the National Health Service, or any other great institution that this country has come to depend on in a way," he told Digital Spy.
"It's a punctuation mark in the stability of British society. How's that for a grandiose quote?...
Hewer, who took over as host of the long-running Channel 4 quiz show last year, actually made a joke to journalists when asked about rumours that the show was coming to an end.
"I've got a contract right through until 2014. So to be honest with you, I'd be sad... but I'd be in the money," he said.
Hewer's Apprentice co-star Lord Sugar laughed: "That's 25 years of training [from me]."
Hewer described Countdown as a "great institution" when he took over the helm from Jeff Stelling last year.
"It's not unlike the monarchy or the National Health Service, or any other great institution that this country has come to depend on in a way," he told Digital Spy.
"It's a punctuation mark in the stability of British society. How's that for a grandiose quote?...
- 4/30/2013
- Digital Spy
Apprentice star Margaret Mountford will be reunited with Nick Hewer on Channel 4's Countdown, it has been confirmed. Hewer and Mountford became cult TV stars after working together for five years as Lord Alan Sugar's "eyes and ears" on The Apprentice. However, Mountford departed the show after the fifth series to focus on her Ph.D studies at University College London. The duo will be reunited on the daytime quiz this weekend, when Mountford films a number of episodes as a guest in Dictionary Corner. Hewer took over from Jeff Stelling as the host of Countdown earlier this year. Writing about the news on Twitter, Hewer said: "Glad tidings! Margaret has agreed (more)...
- 3/8/2012
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
Nick Hewer has praised his Countdown co-star Rachel Riley. The Apprentice star takes over from presenter Jeff Stelling when the popular Channel 4 series returns next week. Speaking to The Mirror, Hewer praised Riley and Dictionary Corner expert Susie Dent. "Rachel is sharp as a whip. She's extraordinary," he said. "During the numbers game she will stare into space with her fingers moving and three seconds later she stops because she's got the answer. Unbelievable. Charming girl, wonderful. She's the definition of toothsome." On Dent, Hewer added: "She is absolutely delightful and smart too." However, the 67-year-old admitted that he was initially unsure about taking (more)...
- 1/6/2012
- by By Ryan Love
- Digital Spy
Nick Hewer has joked that he would like Margaret Mountford to appear on Countdown. Last year, it emerged that Hewer has been installed as the new host of the Channel 4 game show following the departure of presenter Jeff Stelling. Hewer has now quipped that he can see Mountford, with whom he previously worked on The Apprentice, making an appearance on the show. "I may well wrestle her into Dictionary Corner," he said, according to The Sun. "She's busy studying (more)...
- 1/5/2012
- by By Catriona Wightman
- Digital Spy
Nick Hewer has admitted that he felt nervous about his new role on Countdown. The Apprentice star will replace Jeff Stelling as host of the Channel 4 quiz show. Hewer told TV Choice. "I was nervous, because I'm not a tutored presenter. I don't know how it all works. I was quite anxious about it, but they tell me I'm Ok." He continued: "The people who really know what they're doing are pleased, and in fact they're good enough to say it's going rather better than they thought it would. I'm enjoying it." The former PR consultant also revealed that he had received permission from Lord Alan Sugar to pursue the Countdown hosting role. "I said to him, 'What do you think?' [and] he said, (more)...
- 1/3/2012
- by By Morgan Jeffery
- Digital Spy
The Apprentice star Nick Hewer's first pictures on the set of Channel 4 quiz show Countdown have been revealed. Hewer will replace Sky Sports presenter Jeff Stelling as the host of the long-running daytime series in the New Year. The former PR consultant follows in the footsteps of previous hosts Des O'Connor, Des Lynam and Richard Whiteley. Maths expert Rachel Riley and Dictionary Corner chair Susie Dent are both returning to the show. Speaking about his appointment earlier this year, Hewer (more)...
- 12/21/2011
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
Ex-Apprentice contestant Kate Walsh has backed Nick Hewer for Countdown. The 67-year-old was announced on Wednesday as Jeff Stelling's replacement on Channel 4's long-running gameshow. Former Ok! TV host Walsh told Pa: "I think he'll be absolutely fantastic, I really love Nick. "He's such a nice person and the faces he pulls - he looks like he's sucking on a lemon a lot of the time - but I think he'll make it really fun and bring a lot of new viewers to the show." Lord Sugar's (more)...
- 11/18/2011
- by By Paul Millar
- Digital Spy
In a totally left field and completely unpredictable choice, 67 year old Nick Hewer has been hired as the new permanent presenter of Channel 4′s daytime gameshow Countdown.
Lord Alan Sugar’s long-term adviser and who in recent years has rose to fame on television with his dry wit, his acerbic putdowns, his unique physical ability to look knowledgeable, bemused and excitable all in one expression as Sugar’s sidekick on The Apprentice, will make his first on-air appearance on January 9th. His first run of episodes will be shot next month.
Hewer replaces the popular Jeff Stelling who leaves the show after finding it too difficult to film a daily quiz program along with his increasing work as a Sky Sports Presenter where he has become the main face of Champions League football in the wake of the resignation of Richard Keys, not to mention his exhaustible Soccer Saturday gig.
Lord Alan Sugar’s long-term adviser and who in recent years has rose to fame on television with his dry wit, his acerbic putdowns, his unique physical ability to look knowledgeable, bemused and excitable all in one expression as Sugar’s sidekick on The Apprentice, will make his first on-air appearance on January 9th. His first run of episodes will be shot next month.
Hewer replaces the popular Jeff Stelling who leaves the show after finding it too difficult to film a daily quiz program along with his increasing work as a Sky Sports Presenter where he has become the main face of Champions League football in the wake of the resignation of Richard Keys, not to mention his exhaustible Soccer Saturday gig.
- 11/16/2011
- by Matt Holmes
- Obsessed with Film
The Apprentice star Nick Hewer has been announced as the new host of Countdown. Channel 4 confirmed that Lord Alan Sugar's aide will take over from Jeff Stelling when filming of the long-running gameshow recommences at the end of the year. Hewer's first episode as Countdown host will air on January 9, 2012. "I'm flattered to have been asked to present such an iconic programme and will work hard to justify sitting in the same seat as such great talents as Jeff Stelling, Des O'Connor and of course the great Richard Whiteley," Hewer commented. "It's particularly fitting that I should be doing this now as my spelling has started to slip quite badly. I used to be able to spell chrysanthemum." Channel 4 chief creative officer Jay Hunt said of the announcement: "Nick will be a (more)...
- 11/16/2011
- by By Daniel Sperling
- Digital Spy
Nick Hewer has been named as the new host of 'Countdown'. The 'Apprentice' sidekick - who has worked as a PR advisor to Lord Alan Sugar for more than 20 years - will take over from current presenter Jeff Stelling and join maths whizz Rachel Riley on the Channel 4 afternoon quiz show next month, with his first scenes to air on January 9. A Channel 4 spokesperson told the Daily Mirror newspaper: "We are absolutely delighted to have Nick on board. He is such a fantastic character and has a huge fan base so he'll make a great addition to the...
- 11/16/2011
- Virgin Media - TV
Jeff Stelling will leave Countdown at the end of the year, a show insider has claimed. The Sky Sports broadcaster, who has hosted the long-running Channel 4 gameshow since January 2009, was said to have had a change of heart last month. However, channel controller Jay Hunt is keen to bring in a new face following a flurry of emails and letters from presenters who are interested in the job, according to The Mirror. A source told the paper: "Jeff really hoped to stay on Countdown. He loves doing the show and felt he could have made a mistake by quitting. But we felt he messed us around a bit. "Jay was considering (more)...
- 8/30/2011
- by By Kate Goodacre
- Digital Spy
Jeff Stelling will leave Countdown at the end of the year, a show insider has claimed. The Sky Sports broadcaster, who has hosted the long-running Channel 4 game show since January 2009, was said to have had a change of heart last month. However, channel controller Jay Hunt is keen to bring in a new face following a flurry of emails and letters from presenters who are interested in the job, according to The Mirror. A source told the paper: "Jeff really hoped to stay on Countdown. He loves doing the show and felt he could have made a mistake by quitting. But we felt he messed us around a bit. "Jay was considering keeping (more)...
- 8/30/2011
- by By Kate Goodacre
- Digital Spy
Jeff Stelling may perform a U-turn on his decision to stand down as Countdown host. A production insider has claimed that the Sky Sports presenter wants to discuss staying on the Channel 4 gameshow. "I would be very surprised if Jeff didn't stay on now," the source told The Mirror. "He made the decision to quit because he feared his hectic workload would make it impossible to focus on Countdown. "But it has become clear that Jeff should be able to manage the schedule alongside his other work." Stelling, who has hosted the programme since January (more)...
- 7/27/2011
- by By Kate Goodacre
- Digital Spy
Carol Vorderman has ruled out returning to host Countdown. The presenter co-hosted the Channel 4 game show from its 1982 premiere, but quit in 2008 after being told to take a 90 percent pay cut or leave. Following current presenter Jeff Stelling's departure, Vorderman has said that she will not be filling the vacant position. "It's not my business any more," she told The People. "I am just a viewer now like everybody else. I would not want to go back to it. "I was (more)...
- 6/12/2011
- by By Colin Daniels
- Digital Spy
Rory Bremner and Giles Brandreth are the bookmakers' favourites to land the vacant Countdown hosting job. Jeff Stelling announced last week that he would be exiting the long-running Channel 4 daytime quiz at the end of the year. Channel 4 is currently searching for a replacement to join Rachel Riley, and impressionist Bremner and Countdown regular Brandreth are currently being backed by punters with odds of 9/2 and 5/1 respectively. Bremner turned down an offer to host the (more)...
- 5/31/2011
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
Sir Terry Wogan's odds on being named the new host of Countdown have been cut. The Irish broadcaster has gone from being 33-1 to 14-1 to land the job after a surge in bets from fans, according to The Mirror. Jeff Stelling announced his departure from the long-running Channel 4 series last week. The Sky Sports presenter admitted that he is "really, really sad" about finishing working with co-host Rachel Riley. "The viewing figures (more)...
- 5/31/2011
- by By Ryan Love
- Digital Spy
Jeff Stelling has announced that he will step down from presenting the long-running Channel 4 series Countdown at the end of the year. Stelling, who has presented the programme since January 2009, is leaving the show to focus on his career as a sports presenter. "I'll give you a little world exclusive," Stelling told Tenerife's Oasis FM yesterday. "Because I'm doing the Champions League for Sky next season I've actually resigned from Countdown and I'll be finishing at the end of December. "You've got to really have your priorities and my priority is football. I love it, and Soccer Saturday, so I've committed myself very much to that next season." (more)...
- 5/24/2011
- by By Tom Ayres
- Digital Spy
Digital Spy presents all the winners for this year's Television and Radio Industries Club (Tric) Awards, which were held today at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London. Satellite/Digital TV Personality Eamonn Holmes- Winner!
Leigh Francis
Peter Andre Digital Radio Personality Chris Evans- Winner!
Chris Moyles
Simon Mayo TV Personality Alan Carr
Harry Hill- Winner!
Jeremy Clarkson Sports Presenter Gary Lineker- Winner!
Jake Humphrey
Jeff Stelling Newscaster/Reporter Bill Turnbull- Winner!
Fiona Bruce
Kate Garraway TV Weather Presenter Carol Kirkwood
Clare Nasir- Winner!
Kirsty McCabe TV Soap Personality Jennifer Metcalfe (Hollyoaks Mercedes McQueen)
Jessie Wallace (EastEnders Kat Moon)- Winner!
Sally Dynevor (Coronation Street Sally Webster) TV Arts/Documentary Programme (more)...
Leigh Francis
Peter Andre Digital Radio Personality Chris Evans- Winner!
Chris Moyles
Simon Mayo TV Personality Alan Carr
Harry Hill- Winner!
Jeremy Clarkson Sports Presenter Gary Lineker- Winner!
Jake Humphrey
Jeff Stelling Newscaster/Reporter Bill Turnbull- Winner!
Fiona Bruce
Kate Garraway TV Weather Presenter Carol Kirkwood
Clare Nasir- Winner!
Kirsty McCabe TV Soap Personality Jennifer Metcalfe (Hollyoaks Mercedes McQueen)
Jessie Wallace (EastEnders Kat Moon)- Winner!
Sally Dynevor (Coronation Street Sally Webster) TV Arts/Documentary Programme (more)...
- 3/8/2011
- by By Kristy Kelly
- Digital Spy
Channel 4 has defended Countdown's decision to feature what appeared to be a conjunction of 'Large Baps' as its Conundrum yesterday. The contestants stifled giggles when host Jeff Stelling revealed that the solution to the ten-point final round was an anagram of 'Largebaps', the Daily Mail reports. When one competitor buzzed in with the seemingly appropriate solution "Graspable", Stelling said: "That's quite brilliant. I thought that was an impossible conundrum." A Channel 4 spokesman said: "I think viewers will be aware of the tongue-in-cheek nature of the show. "It's (more)...
- 12/15/2010
- by By Mayer Nissim
- Digital Spy
Britain's Queen Elizabeth has sent a message of congratulations to UK TV show 'Countdown' to mark its 5,000th episode. In a letter to the programme - presented by Jeff Stelling and Rachel Riley - the queen's secretary wrote: ''Her Majesty has asked me to say that she was interested to learn of the event and sends her good wishes to you and to everyone involved with the show. Congratulations on this significant achievement.'' The programme, which broadcasts the milestone episode today (26.03.10), has run for more than 50 series since its inception in 1982, and was hosted for many years by the late Richard Whiteley and mathematician Carol Vorderman. Today's show will also welcome back former host, sports reporter Des...
- 3/26/2010
- Monsters and Critics
Channel 4 has handed a new two-year contract to its long-running gameshow Countdown. The news was announced today to tie in with celebrations for the programme's 5,000th episode, which airs this afternoon. Countdown's new deal will see hosts Jeff Stelling and Rachel Riley continuing to front the programme, while Susie Dent is expected to remain in the Dictionary Corner. Channel 4's head of daytime Helen Warner told The Mirror: "It is an amazing achievement for Countdown to be celebrating 5,000 shows. "Jeff, (more)...
- 3/26/2010
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
Two contestants on Countdown seemingly avoided spelling out "f**ked" when the six-letter word would have won them the round on the Channel 4 gameshow. Co-host Rachel Riley had sequentially put the letters A, U, O, D, F, C, K, E, G on the board, causing a look of amusement from presenter Jeff Stelling, the Daily Mail reports. Instead of winning the round with the six-letter expletive, the two contestants opted to share the points with the five-letter "caged" and "faced" respectively. Viewer Douglas Bedford said: "As (more)...
- 3/25/2010
- by By Mayer Nissim
- Digital Spy
Digital Spy presents a full list of winners from the 2010 Television and Radio Industries Club (Tric) Awards, which were held today at London's Grosvenor House Hotel. Satellite/Digital TV Personality
Eamonn Holmes - Winner!
Jeff Stelling
Joe Swash Digital Radio Personality Chris Evans
Chris Moyles
Terry Wogan - Winner! TV Personality Harry Hill - Winner!
James May
Stephen Fry Sports Presenter Gabby Logan
Gary Lineker - Winner!
Jeff Stelling Newscaster/Reporter Bill Turnbull
Jon Snow
Mark Austin - Winner! TV Weather Presenter Carol Kirkwood
Peter Cockroft
Tomasz Schafernaker - Winner! TV Soap Personality Lacey Turner
Ricky Whittle - Winner!
Simon Gregson TV Arts/Documentary Programme Countryfile
James May's Toy Stories
Oz and James Drink to Britain - Winner! Satellite/Digital (more)...
Eamonn Holmes - Winner!
Jeff Stelling
Joe Swash Digital Radio Personality Chris Evans
Chris Moyles
Terry Wogan - Winner! TV Personality Harry Hill - Winner!
James May
Stephen Fry Sports Presenter Gabby Logan
Gary Lineker - Winner!
Jeff Stelling Newscaster/Reporter Bill Turnbull
Jon Snow
Mark Austin - Winner! TV Weather Presenter Carol Kirkwood
Peter Cockroft
Tomasz Schafernaker - Winner! TV Soap Personality Lacey Turner
Ricky Whittle - Winner!
Simon Gregson TV Arts/Documentary Programme Countryfile
James May's Toy Stories
Oz and James Drink to Britain - Winner! Satellite/Digital (more)...
- 3/9/2010
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
Countdown has seen its viewership increase since the departure of Carol Vorderman and Des O'Connor, reports The Mirror. Ratings for the Channel 4 quiz show, now fronted by Sky Sports presenter Jeff Stelling and newcomer Rachel Riley, have risen by 11% after the new series debuted ten days ago. The first show attracted an audience of 1.3 million and has averaged 1.1 million in subsequent episodes, putting it above 2008's figures. "We are delighted," a Channel 4 spokesman said. "Jeff and Rachel make a fantastic team." A show insider acknowledged (more)...
- 1/22/2009
- by By Simon Reynolds
- Digital Spy
Jeff Stelling has revealed that he thinks his first time in the Countdown presenter's seat went well. The Soccer Saturday host, who follows Des O'Connor in the role, said that he hopes viewers give the revamped quiz show a chance. "The signs are good. Some of the audience came up to me afterwards and said they'd enjoyed it. The acid test is what the viewers think," (more)...
- 1/9/2009
- by By Michael Thornton
- Digital Spy
Jeff Stelling has promised that he will maintain the tradition of "awful puns" on Countdown. The quiz show's new presenter said that his humour would be similar to former hosts Richard Whiteley, Des Lynam and Des O'Connor. "There will still be the awful puns," he told The Mirror. "I think one of the things that appealed to the producers is the humour - the good, bad and indifferent humour, well, mainly bad!" Meanwhile, Stelling laughed off claims that he may become a sex symbol for an older (more)...
- 1/8/2009
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
New Countdown presenter Jeff Stelling has praised co-host Rachel Riley, describing her as "drop-dead gorgeous". Speaking to the Radio Times, Sky Sport's Soccer Saturday host voiced his admiration for Riley, who takes over from Carol Vorderman as the Channel 4 gameshow's numbers and letters girl on January 12. He said: "She's drop-dead gorgeous, and clever with it. She's 22, blonde, beautiful, an Oxford maths graduate, very confident - she'll be a big, big hit." Stelling downplayed (more)...
- 1/5/2009
- by By Simon Reynolds
- Digital Spy
New Countdown presenter Jeff Stelling has praised co-host Rachel Riley, describing her as "drop-dead gorgeous". Speaking to the Radio Times, Sky Sport's Soccer Saturday host voiced his admiration for Riley, who takes over from Carol Vorderman as the Channel 4 gameshow's numbers and letters girl on January 12. He said: "She's drop-dead gorgeous, and clever with it. She's 22, blonde, beautiful, an Oxford maths graduate, very confident - she'll be a big, big hit." Stelling downplayed (more)...
- 1/5/2009
- by By Simon Reynolds
- Digital Spy
Countdown's new co-host Rachel Riley has been struggling to match the standard set by her predecessor Carol Vorderman, according to a report today. The 22-year-old Oxford graduate took over as the programme's numbers and letters girl last month following Vorderman's departure. She was joined by sports presenter Jeff Stelling, who replaced main host Des O'Connor. Insiders have claimed that Riley was unable to solve the show's number puzzles as quickly and accurately as Vorderman in her first three weeks of filming. One source told the News of the World: "It's clear she hasn't managed to match Carol's skills yet. If the contestants couldn't solve a problem Carol would (more)...
- 12/28/2008
- by By Daniel Kilkelly
- Digital Spy
Jeff Stelling and Rachel Riley have been confirmed as the new presenters of Countdown. Stelling, who presents Soccer Saturday on Sky Sports, will take over from Des O'Connor as host of the Channel 4 quiz in January. "I am delighted to be hosting Countdown and follow in the footsteps of such great broadcasters as Richard Whiteley, Des Lynam and Des O'Connor," the father-of-three told The Sun. Riley, who replaces Carol Vorderman as co-presenter, (more)...
- 11/21/2008
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
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