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Veteran Broadcaster Slams BBC's Youth Obsession
16 Jul
Summary
- Radio host Ken Bruce criticizes BBC for changing successful shows for younger audiences.
- He noted 'A Question of Sport's' audience decline after refresh attempts.
- Bruce now hosts a successful show on Greatest Hits Radio with older listeners.
Veteran radio host Ken Bruce has voiced strong criticism of the BBC, accusing the broadcaster of altering popular programs beyond recognition in a relentless pursuit of younger audiences.
Bruce, who spent over four decades at the BBC before moving to Greatest Hits Radio in 2023, stated that the corporation frequently refreshes successful shows to appeal to younger demographics that do not materialize.
He cited the sports quiz 'A Question of Sport' as a prime example. Following a decision to "refresh" the show with a new host and format, its audience reportedly dropped from millions to under one million.
Bruce's own departure from the BBC was partly attributed to a growing dislike for the new music he was required to play, and feeling like an "old bloke in the corner" as studio staff became younger.
His current show on Greatest Hits Radio, aimed at listeners aged 40 to 70, has garnered over three million daily listeners, making it the most popular program on commercial radio.
