Bob Harris, the well-known radio presenter, is leaving his shows on BBC Radio 2 because of health problems.
Harris began working at the station in 1996 and quickly became a popular and reliable voice for music fans. He’s well-known for hosting popular weekend shows like Bob Harris Country and Sounds of the 70s.
Throughout his career, Harris has been instrumental in developing the specialist music programming on Radio 2, introducing listeners to both new and well-known artists. He’s a dedicated supporter of genres like country, folk, Americana, and singer-songwriter music, and has been key in making country music more popular in the UK.
In a recent statement, Harris reflected on his nearly 56-year career in broadcasting, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to do what he loves. He described himself as a longtime supporter of the BBC, appreciating the creative freedom he’s always been given to develop his programs.
I’ve loved my time at Radio 2, especially working with my wonderful colleagues. It’s been a privilege to broadcast on such a fantastic station. I’m incredibly proud of how The Radio 2 Country Show has helped country music become so popular in the UK, and presenting Sounds of the 70s on Sundays has been a true highlight – making my time here the most special part of my career.
Above all, I want to thank my listeners. I’ve poured my heart and soul into every show, and that’s all thanks to your support. Your kindness and dedication mean the world to me. It’s with great sadness that I’m having to leave the show due to health problems, but I need to focus on getting better. This was an incredibly difficult decision, but I wouldn’t want to continue if I couldn’t give you my all.
“I am going to miss you, and I love you very much. Thank you for listening.”
Harris hosted his final ‘Sounds of the 70s’ show on March 8th and his last ‘Radio 2 Country Show’ on April 2nd.
Helen Thomas, head of Radio 2, expressed her gratitude to Bob, calling him a radio legend for his many years of wonderful shows on the station. He’s hosted The Radio 2 Country Show since 1999 and has been a highly respected and influential figure as country music has grown in popularity.
Since becoming host of Sounds of the 70s, he’s brought warmth, humor, and fascinating personal experiences from his time within the vibrant music world of the 1970s to the show.
Bob is loved by everyone at Radio 2 and all his listeners, and we’ll all really miss his weekly shows. The entire Radio 2 team sends Bob and his family our best wishes and full support.
Shaun Keaveny is becoming the regular host of Sounds of the 70s on Sundays from 3-5pm. He already hosts the Radio 2 Rock Show on Fridays from 11pm to midnight, and has previously filled in on both Sounds of the 70s and other Radio 2 programs over the past year.
Meeting Bob, a true legend who kept the heart of rock, roll, and radio alive, was an incredible experience. I feel it’s my duty to carry on his legacy and share the amazing music of that era with the world. Every week, someone discovers a classic like “Won’t Get Fooled Again” for the very first time, and that’s thanks to Bob – he did that for me, and for so many others. We want to express our gratitude for the music – you’ll always be our rock ‘n’ roll hero.
Darius Rucker will continue to host The Radio 2 Country Show (Thursdays 9-10pm) in the interim.
The BBC is shaking up its Saturday night programming, with a renewed focus on popular decade-themed shows and the presenters listeners love on Radio 2.
Gary Davies’ “Sounds of the 80s” is moving to an earlier time slot, now airing from 6 to 8pm. And Fearne Cotton’s “Sounds of the 90s” will be on Saturdays from 8 to 10pm.
At 10pm, Vernon Kay – host of the UK’s most popular weekday radio show (9.30am–noon), reaching 6.6 million listeners weekly (as of early 2026) – will present a show called ‘Dance Sounds of the 90s’.
Fans can continue to enjoy Dermot O’Leary on the airwaves with both his well-loved Saturday Breakfast Show (8-10am) and a new show called Alternative Sounds of the 90s (11pm–midnight).
Helen Thomas confirmed that Saturday nights on Radio 2 will remain the UK’s top choice for listeners, offering a fantastic mix of popular 80s and 90s hits played by Gary, Fearne, Vernon, and Dermot.
Authors
Katelyn Mensah writes about entertainment for TopMob, covering everything from popular TV shows and reality competitions to important documentaries. Before joining TopMob, she worked at The Tab, where she reported on reality TV and celebrity news. She has a journalism degree.
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2026-06-04 13:07