Following the news that radio presenter and DJ Ken Bruce would be leaving BBC Radio 2 mid-morning show after 31 years, social media was flooded with memories of his long tenure. The 71-year-old Scot will join Greatest Hits Radio in April, taking with him his iconic Popmaster show, but one Welsh celebrity will feel his departure more than many.
Ken's long career is jam-packed with memorable moments and one that certainly comes to mind for many people, happened on April Fool's Day 2011. Back in 2011 Gavin and Stacey star, and amazing impressionist, Rob Brydon played a trick on Ken's regular viewers prompting some to complain about Ken being 'annoying'.
On the day that is dedicated to pranks, Welsh comic Rob Brydon impersonated Ken for an entire show. The April Fool's Day stunt fooled viewers and even prompted some to suggest that Ken had been drinking. One person said on social media at the time: "Ken Bruce has been really annoying this morning, totally unlike him, but I for one am not impressed. There, I've said it now, rant over."
Read more: Radio 2 DJ legend Ken Bruce to leave morning show after 31 years
During the show, Brydon (as Ken) called Radio 2 presenter Jeremy Vine “boring”. He also conducted a spoof interview with Terry Wogan, who turned out to be actor Peter Serafinowicz. Some people have now suggested that Brydon "step in" full-time.
Following the spoof show, the real Ken said: "It's been wonderful to be able to listen to the radio - tuning into someone entertaining in the morning for a change. I'm offering him a contract to share the honours on a regular basis."
Brydon, himself, said of the experience: "They were big shoes to fill but I loved the challenge of being Ken for the whole show. I'd seen Being John Malkovich and wanted to take it to the next level." The funny Welshman responded to Ken's news yesterday, posting on Twiiter: "Devastated to hear @RealKenBruce has decided to leave @BBCRadio2 I ask that people please respect my privacy at this difficult time."
Announcing his departure, Ken explained that he felt the time was right for a "change". He explained: "It’s been a tremendously happy time for me: I’ve made many friends and worked with many wonderful colleagues. However, I feel that after 45 years of full-time broadcasting on BBC Radio it’s time for a change."
Ken is set to leave BBC Radio 2 in March and will then join Greatest Hits Radio a month later in April. For more showbiz and television stories get our newsletter here.
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