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Liza Tarbuck has announced she is stepping down from her popular Saturday evening programme on BBC Radio 2 after 14 years at the helm.
The 61-year-old Radio 2 presenter, comedian and actress has long hosted the 6pm to 8pm slot each Saturday, becoming a firm favourite with listeners for her warm, witty presenting style.
On Wednesday night, Liza revealed that her decision to leave was driven purely by personal reasons, explaining that she “wants her weekends back” and will therefore be stepping down from her regular show.
Her announcement follows recent weeks in which presenter Shaun Keaveny has covered the slot, prompting speculation that her departure could be imminent.
Confirming the news in a heartfelt post on Instagram, Liza said: “We made 2 hrs of radio feel like a private members club, that’s the stuff of dreams.
“Thousands of people enjoyed each other’s company like great friends…
“Thank you for letting me in, it’s been a privilege.”
Tributes were quick to follow from colleagues at the station. Helen Thomas, Head of Radio 2 said: "Every Saturday evening, Liza created a truly magical, fantastical world. She was beloved by everyone at the station and all her listeners, and the door at Radio 2 will always be open for her. Liza will be hugely missed and we wish her the very best of luck for the future. "
A BBC spokesperson confirmed that Shaun Keaveny will continue to present the slot until the end of March, with further plans for the programme to be announced in due course.
Who is Liza Tarbuck?
Liza Tarbuck is a British actress, comedian and radio presenter. She is well known for her work on television, in comedy, and most recently for hosting her long-running Saturday evening show on BBC Radio 2.
How old is Liza Tarbuck?
Liza Tarbuck is 61 years old.
Who was Liza Tarbuck’s famous father?
Liza Tarbuck is the daughter of Jimmy Tarbuck, a well-known British comedian and television presenter. Jimmy Tarbuck rose to fame in the 1960s and became a household name through his stand-up comedy and hosting roles on popular UK television shows.
Why has Liza Tarbuck left her Radio 2 show?
Liza Tarbuck has stepped down from her Radio 2 programme for personal reasons. She explained that she “wants her weekends back” after 14 years of hosting the Saturday evening slot.
How long did Liza Tarbuck present on Radio 2?
Liza Tarbuck presented her Saturday evening show on BBC Radio 2 for 14 years. Her first show aired in 2012.
Who is replacing Liza Tarbuck on Radio 2?
Shaun Keaveny is presenting the Saturday evening slot until the end of March. The BBC has said further plans for the programme will be announced in due course
What is Liza Tarbuck known for besides Radio 2?
In addition to her radio work, Liza Tarbuck has had a successful career in television and comedy. She has appeared in a range of TV dramas, entertainment shows and panel programmes, such as Upstart Crow, Taskmaster and Linda Green and is widely respected for her distinctive voice and warm presenting style.
Has Liza Tarbuck said anything about leaving?
Yes, she shared a message on Instagram thanking listeners and reflecting on her time at Radio 2. She described the show as feeling like “a private members club” and said it had been “a privilege.”
Is Liza Tarbuck a smoker?
Yes, Liza Tarbuck is known to be a smoker, with past accounts mentioning that she needed to take a smoking break in between filming.
Claire Tapley is a digital editor for Yours.co.uk. She is a journalist with over 18 years' experience writing for women over 50. Before moving to Yours.co.uk, she was deputy editor of Yours magazine for nine years. Claire is extremely passionate about all things TV related, with her favourite shows including Traitors, Strictly and The Great British Bake Off.