Emily Zemler
Updated on: October 9, 2024 12:09 am GMT
Exclusive interview: Broadcasting legend will exit BBC headquarters for final time exactly 50 years to the second after he first entered
Veteran BBC radio presenter Garry Richardson is set to leave the station after 50 years, marking his final broadcast on September 9, 2024, at exactly 9:45am—the same time he began his career on September 9, 1974. Known for his long-standing role on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme and his work on Sportsweek, Richardson has had a remarkable career in broadcasting.
Reflecting on his journey, Richardson expressed emotional sentiments about his time at the BBC, stating, “I get a bit emotional, looking back.” He plans to step out of Broadcasting House promptly at 9:45am to the second, emphasizing his obsession with time. “They could throw a really lovely party for me, and I’d say, ‘sorry I have to leave, I really have got to be out that door for 9:45,'” he quipped.
Richardson has been a familiar face on the *Today* program for 43 years. He has shared sports news and interviewed many famous people, like Bill Clinton and Muhammad Ali. As he gets ready to retire, he says he will miss his coworkers, but he is excited to spend more time with his family, including his three grown-up kids and his two-year-old granddaughter. Even though he will not be working full-time anymore, Richardson will still pop in to broadcast occasionally, and he is happy to say goodbye to those early morning wake-up calls that have been part of his job for so long.
