Melvyn Bragg has announced that he will be leaving BBC Radio 4 show In Our Time after hosting it for 27 years. He launched it in October 1998, after being asked to present a programme during what was known as “the death slot” because of its low Thursday morning audience figures.
The show, which explores the characters, events and discoveries that have shaped our world, has proved extremely popular. It celebrated its 1,000th episode in 2023 and is regularly one of the BBC’s most listened to on-demand programmes worldwide.
It was also the BBC’s first podcast, and – 20 years since its 2004 launch – one of BBC Sounds’ most popular podcasts among under-35s. To this day, Bragg is the only person to have presented the show.
“For a programme with a wholly misleading title which started from scratch with a six-month contract, it’s been quite a ride,” said Bragg. “I have worked with many extremely talented and helpful people inside the BBC as well as some of the greatest academics around the world. It’s been a great privilege and pleasure. I much look forward to continuing to work for the BBC on Radio 4. Thank you for listening.”
Bragg’s final episode aired in July. It was a discussion on civility – and how to disagree with someone while still getting along with them. In Our Time will continue with a new host, who is yet to be announced.
“Melvyn’s passion for the arts, his intellectual curiosity and his unwavering commitment to public service broadcasting over the last 60-plus years have enriched the lives of millions,” said Tim Davie, the BBC director general.
“Through In Our Time on Radio 4 he has brought depth, insight and humanity to our airwaves every single week for more than a quarter of a century. He leaves behind not just an extraordinary body of work, but a gold standard of broadcasting and interviewing excellence that will inspire generations to come.”
Radio 4 will mark the end of Bragg’s tenure as host of In Our Time by airing some of Bragg’s favourite episodes. It will also launch a curated selection of past shows on BBC Sounds chosen by notable fans of the show.