Vernon Kay receives accolades as the newest data from research firm Rajar reveals that he is hosting the most popular radio program nationwide.
At 52, the presenter has been leading the mid-morning segment on Radio 2 since 2023, airing Monday to Friday from 9:30 am to 12:00 pm, succeeding Ken Bruce when he transitioned to Greatest Hits Radio.
Not only is it Radio 2’s top-performing show, but it also holds the title as the most successful show in the country. Radio 2 retains its position as the most favored station in the UK, attracting 12 million listeners weekly.
Helen Thomas, the head of Radio 2, expressed her joy over the achievement, stating, “I’m thrilled that Radio 2 remains the UK’s most popular radio station. Listeners are engaging for over 11 hours every week, marking a nearly four-year high.”
She specifically commended Vernon Kay for his outstanding performance, noting, “Congratulations to Vernon Kay, the host of the UK’s most listened-to radio show with a weekly audience of 6.8 million, his highest since 2024.”
Radio listenership has seen a notable increase of 2 million since 2022, reaching a record high of 51 million listeners.
Vernon’s recent show has garnered praise, particularly after a poignant moment where he paused the broadcast last week, shedding tears following a touching interview with The Script’s Danny O’Donoghue about his late bandmate.
This success coincides with a significant time for Vernon, occurring just months after he and his wife of 22 years announced their separation.
The former Strictly Come Dancing host, 57, married fellow TV personality Vernon in September 2003, and together they have two daughters, Phoebe, 21, and Amber, 16. However, they revealed their split via social media in May.
Their joint statement on Instagram read, “After careful consideration and mutual respect, we have decided to separate amicably. While not an easy choice, it stems from a shared understanding and the desire for what is best for both of us. We remain close friends and devoted parents, prioritizing our children.”
The couple is reportedly pursuing a swift divorce and maintaining a harmonious cohabitation as they navigate their future alongside their daughters.
Despite their separation, Vernon and Tess were seen together at Pub in the Park just ten days after announcing their split, appearing cheerful and relaxed in each other’s company.
An eyewitness at the event mentioned to The Sun, “Tess and Vernon seemed very comfortable together despite their separation news. They are visibly happy around each other, engaging with fans, taking selfies, and enjoying themselves.”
At Wimbledon in July, Tess was spotted still wearing her wedding ring, indicating a lack of animosity between her and her ex-partner.