Amol Rajan is taking over from Jeremy Paxman on University Challenge. (John Phillips/Getty Images for Advertising Week)
Amol Rajan is taking over from Jeremy Paxman on University Challenge. (John Phillips/Getty Images for Advertising Week)
Amol Rajan is to replace Jeremy Paxman as the host of University Challenge, the BBC has said.
The journalist and broadcaster will take over hosting duties from Jeremy Paxman in 2023.
He said in a statement: “Being asked to host my favourite TV programme is dream-come-true territory. I have watched University Challenge obsessively for years, addicted to its high standards, glorious title music, and inspirational contestants.
I am led to believe that among the BBC job seekers, Amol is not particularly popular. It is alleged that he has sharp elbows and would not think twice about standing on your shoulders to see over the fence. However, I and many other viewers like him and his style of presenting. For the Beeb this is a good choice and he has ethnic origins - double whammy.
imo there are much more suitable and better presenters than Amol Rajan. I always get the feeling, and think, that whenever I see him that he is presenting himself and saying look at how wonderful I am rather than getting on with his job.
Will I watch the programme again? Not sure how much of him, him, him, himself I can stand.
I've not watched UC for yonks except on the odd occasion. It's only interesting when you get some real brainbox who astounds everyone with their breadth & depth of knowledge.