Claudia Winkleman Quits Film 2016

Claudia Winkleman has announced that she’s quitting ‘Film 2016’, after six years hosting the BBC’s veteran movie review show.

In a statement, the presenter said that it was ‘incredibly sad’ and had not been an ‘easy decision’ to step down from the show, which she has co-hosted with Danny Leigh.

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“At this time of year I juggle all kinds of things for TV and radio and the show simply deserves someone who can give it their all,” she said.

“I’ll so miss Danny and the team and will badger them constantly for chats.”

She added on Twitter:

Mark Bell, the BBC’s head of arts commissioning, said: “We’ve loved having Claudia on Film 2016 and I’d like to thank her for all her hard work and commitment to the show.”

A replacement for Winkleman has not yet been announced, but judging by comments made on comments threads and social media, Mark Kermode appears to be a popular choice.

Kermode currently presents the BBC Radio 5 Live movie show with Simon Mayo, as well as reviewing movies for the BBC News Channel.

The show has been broadcast on the BBC since 1971. Barry Norman joined the show in 1972, hosting it until 1998, when Jonathan Ross took over the hotseat.

Winkleman, meanwhile, also hosts ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ and her Radio 2 show on Sundays, as well as being a mum of three.

Image credits: PA