Bob Harris steps down from BBC Radio 2 roles after 56 years

The 80-year-old announced his retirement from Sounds Of The 70s and the Radio 2 Country Show due to ill health, describing the decision as "one of the hardest decisions of my life."

Harris revealed in April that his prostate cancer has spread to his upper spine.

He said: "It’s incredible to think that my broadcasting career has spanned almost 56 years.

It's arguably not hugely surprising given the circumstances but I am nevertheless sad to note that Bob Harris is stepping down from his role at @BBCRadio2 . He had a cool, calm style and his love of (country) music always shone through in his programmes. He will be a big miss.

— David Whitfield (@DavidWhitfield4) June 4, 2026

"I am very fortunate to have spent my entire working life doing something I love so much.

"I am a massive BBC loyalist, and I’m grateful that I have always been given the freedom to build my programmes in my own way.

"Most of my time on air has been spent with my fabulous family at Radio 2 and it has been such a joy to broadcast on this world-class radio station.

"I am so proud that the Radio 2 Country Show has played such a massive part in propelling country to become the fastest-growing music genre in the UK, and presenting Sounds Of The 70s on Sunday afternoons has been a real pleasure and made my time here the most special of my entire life.

"But more than anything, I want to say thank you to my listeners.

"I have put everything I have into every show I’ve ever done, and it’s all been because of you.

"Your love and loyalty mean more to me than words can ever say.

"I am so sorry that my health issues are forcing me to step down, but I realise that I must concentrate on getting myself well again.

"This has been one of the hardest decisions of my life, but I would never want to be doing programmes knowing that I am unable to give you 100%.

"I am going to miss you, and I love you very much.

"Thank you for listening."

End of an era in radio land with Bob Harris stepping down (due to ill health). We're losing proper radio DJ's for all sorts of reasons and very few newer ones truly know the craft.

— robin (@MsRobinHosking) June 4, 2026

One fan said on X that it was the "end of an era" as Bob steps down from his Radio 2 roles.

Mr Harris took over Sounds Of The 70s in 2024 from Johnnie Walker, but was already long established as a BBC favourite and champion of country, folk, and Americana music.

He presented his final episode of Sounds Of The 70s on Sunday, March 8, and his last Radio 2 Country Show on Thursday, April 2.

Helen Thomas, head of Radio 2, praised Mr Harris for his impact on listeners and colleagues alike.

She said: "Bob has hosted The Radio 2 Country Show since 1999, becoming a trusted and respected tastemaker as the genre exploded in popularity.

"Since taking the reins of Sounds Of The 70s, he has filled the show with love, laughter and captivating stories of being at the heart of the music scene throughout the decade.

"Bob is adored by the Radio 2 family and his listeners, and we are all going to miss him and his weekly shows very much.

"Everyone at Radio 2 sends Bob and his family our love and support."

He has also had roles on Radio 1, BBC Six Music and television, including his celebrated tenure on the award-winning BBC music show Old Grey Whistle Test during the 1970s.

Harris has long been a passionate advocate for country, folk, Americana and singer-songwriters and introduced generations of listeners to emerging talent alongside established stars.

Shaun Keaveny will take over as the permanent host of Sounds Of The 70s, having already deputised in the slot.

He said: "As long as I can remember, I’ve loved the music of the 70s.

"My mum reckons Rocket Man was all over the radio when I was born in ’72 … guess who was playing that on the original Sounds Of The 70s at that time.

"It was the thrill of my life to meet Bob, the man who has done more to maintain the spirit of rock, roll and radio than almost anyone.

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"I consider it not just an honour but a mission to continue Bob’s work of showing the world the greatness of the music of that special decade.

"Somewhere, every week, some kid hears Won’t Get Fooled Again for the first time.

"You did that for me Bob, and millions like me.

"We’d like to say Thank You For The Music, you’ll always be our Rock n Roll Doctor.”

Darius Rucker will continue to host The Radio 2 Country Show on Thursdays from 9-10pm in the interim.

Did you listen to Bob Harris on the radio? Tell us your favourite moments in the comments below.