Paul O’Grady thanked his listeners and said he can now “run free” as he wrapped up his final BBC Radio 2 show on Sunday.
O’Grady, 67, had hosted the Sunday afternoon show for almost 14 years, before a schedule change meant he shared the hosting role with comedian Rob Beckett, swapping every 13 weeks .
In a social media message posted before the show, he said his departure was due to the new deal.
“The reason I’m leaving, because everyone’s been asking me, is because I wasn’t really happy with 13 weeks on and 13 weeks off,” he said in an Instagram post on Sunday.
“So I did the honorable thing, fulfilled my contract, gave my notice and now I’m leaving. Thank you very much and good luck to everyone at Radio 2 and long continued.”
During his latest show, he reflected on his time in the hot seat with his producer Malcolm Prince. “This is Paul O’Grady’s last Sunday program here on Radio 2. It’s hard to say that, Malcolm, because it’s been almost 14 years, hasn’t it?
“You know this is one of the longest jobs I’ve ever had. I just came to do a few hours for Elaine Paige and look what happened.
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He continued: “Anyway, I always said I was running from the building and there was a big bubble that would catch me in Oxford Street and take me back as a prisoner, but today is not today and I can run free.
O’Grady thanked his listeners for tuning in and getting involved over the years. He also thanked his producer, saying: “I really appreciate it because, let’s face it, it wouldn’t have been the same without you guys, would it?”
After playing her latest song, Bette Midler’s Friends, she added: “From everyone here, from me and Malcolm and everyone, thank you for tuning in these past 546 shows. So take care, stay safe and well. Ta-ra everyone.”
The BBC confirmed that Beckett will return for at least another 13 weeks of shows from 21 August.
O’Grady is the latest big-name anchor to leave the station. Steve Wright, also 67, was replaced by Scott Mills, 48, after 24 years at the network.
And in July, Vanessa Feltz, 60, announced she was leaving her shows on Radio 2 and BBC Radio London.
The BBC has been contacted for comment.