Vernon Kay has shared a “huge thank you” to listeners tuning into BBC Radio 2. The broadcaster replaced presenter Ken Bruce on his weekday mid-morning slot in February 2023. Vernon said taking over the show was “a dream come true”.
At the time of taking on the role, Vernon said: “What an honour to follow in the footsteps of the mighty Ken Bruce. I’m absolutely over the moon to be handed the microphone.” The 51-year-old has been a regular voice on radio for years, in his latest update he shared exciting news about the radio channel.
Vernon’s post to Instagram said: “BBC Radio 2 continues to be the UK’s most listened to single radio station with a weekly reach of 12.7 million.
“Scott Mills remains the UK’s most listened to Breakfast Show, increasing his audience to 6.5 million listeners, his highest figure since taking over Radio 2 Breakfast in January 2025.”
Vernon Kay continues to be the most listened to show on UK radio, growing to 6.7 million listeners each week. The radio star has shared insights into his private life in recent months as wife, Tess Daly, stepped down from her presenting role on Strictly Come Dancing after the latest series wrapped up.
The couple have been married since 2003 and they share daughters Phoebe, 21, and Amber, 16. After the last Strictly episode finished in December, the hosts signed off the show as Tess said: “Thanks to you at home for watching.
“It has been such an honour and an absolute pleasure sharing this with you. All that’s left to do now is please keep dancing and celebrate our fantastic winners.”
Tess was flooded with support from her husband and family. Vernon and their daughter Phoebe were in the audience to watch their mum present her final show on the BBC hit show.
Ahead of the show, the Radio 2 DJ shared two snaps of Tess with late presenter Bruce Forsyth and current co-host Claudia Winkleman. He captioned the post: “Today is a huge day! One last dance.”
He also reposted Tess’ emotional video, captioning it: “End of an Era with a love heart emoji.” Speaking about his wife’s last performance, he told listeners of his BBC Radio show: “It’s Tess’ last Strictly on Saturday and I can’t say too much because I’m going to get really emotional, but it’s been an amazing 21 years.
“She has been at the helm of that show with Bruce and with Claudia, and it’s been nothing but raucous fun. It’s been the favourite show of the nation for so long since it started, and it’s seen our two kids arrive through the show as well.”