Ken Bruce, the popular Scottish broadcaster, has revealed that the BBC turned down the opportunity to jointly trademark his iconic PopMaster music radio quiz, prompting him to acquire the rights himself. Having hosted the segment on BBC Radio 2 for over two decades, Bruce recently made the move to Bauer's Greatest Hits Radio, taking the format along with him.
PopMaster has now been transformed into a Channel 4 television show. The program features two contestants answering ten questions about popular music from the 1950s to the present day, and according to Bruce, its TV debut is "going quite nicely."
During an appearance on ITV's Good Morning Britain (GMB), co-host Martin Lewis asked the 72-year-old broadcaster how he managed to secure the rights to PopMaster. Bruce explained: "It's a long story. I thought about protecting the name PopMaster a few years ago. I asked somebody at the BBC if they wanted to come in on it, and they said, 'nah,' so I just trademarked it myself, so it became mine and my colleagues'."
The beloved quiz segment has been adapted into a six-part series for More4, with the premiere episode airing on Monday evening. When questioned about his transition away from the "warm bosom of Radio 2," Bruce responded: "I've successfully dragged myself away from it, I think. I'm very, very happy at Greatest Hits Radio. It's a lovely station, and I'm playing terrific music, so it's a good thing for me to do – move on and try something new."
Bruce also opened up about being awarded an MBE in the King's Birthday Honours for his contributions to radio, autism awareness, and charity. He expressed his surprise and gratitude, stating: "It's a huge honor, and unexpected because I've just been getting on with what I do, really." He further emphasized the importance of raising awareness about autism, as his own son is on the autism spectrum, and hoped that the recognition would bring attention to those who need it.
Sharing his thoughts on autism, Bruce stressed the significance of recognising the individuality of each person on the spectrum. During his appearance on GMB, he highlighted the need for improved provisions in the education system, ranging from the youngest to those in further education. Bruce believes that expanding and enhancing support for individuals on the spectrum would lead to a happier and improved society.
The BBC declined comment on the matter.
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