The Strictly Come Dancing star will appear on screens as a presenter on the hit daytime TV show
Escape to the Country will soon be back on our screens for its 26th season and a new presenter has recently been announced ahead of the new series. Fans of the hit BBC show were quick to express their excitement as the former Strictly Come Dancing star shared his exciting career update.
The daytime TV show sees each host help buyers make the move to the countryside with the hopes of kickstarting a more peaceful way of life. Each episode also includes a Mystery House, carefully chosen by the experts which is shown to the buyers at the end of their search.
Current hosts include Jules Hudson, Ginny Buckley, Alistair Appleton, Sonali Shah and Briony May Williams. It has recently been confirmed that Richie Anderson is joining the list of presenters.
The TV and radio star is best known for presenting the travel reports on BBC Radio 2, as well as regular appearances on The One Show. He also participated in series 20 of Strictly Come Dancing in 2022, partnered with Giovanni Pernice. But he has now traded the world of glamour and showbiz for a trip to the countryside on Escape to the Country.
Richie announced the exciting news in a post on Instagram. He said: “As announced on @bbctheoneshow this evening I am the newest presenter to join The @escape_country family.
“It’s a real honour to be joining such an iconic TV programme and a brilliant family of presenters. Escape to the Country is one of the reasons I moved out of London for a quieter way of life.
“I’m excited to pass on my love of the countryside to our house hunters and it’s a privilege to share such a personal experience with them and help tell their story.
“My first episode is in my stomping ground in The Midlands, an area that is often overlooked when it comes to country life so I can’t wait to show you some hidden gems.“The teams I’ve had the pleasure of working with so far are so talented and I’m learning so much from them. Everybody that works on this programme really loves it and it’s such a joy. The new series starts later this month on BBC One!”
Several stars took to the comments to show their support. Briony May Williams said: “Welcome to the family!!! Can’t wait to watch! Xxx.”
Sonali Shah also said: “Welcome to the fam.” Nikki Chapman said: “Welcome to the Escape Team.” Zoe Ball added: “Super proud of you Richie. Watching your star rise with great pride baby. They’re blessed to have you join the team. Best show!”
Fans also flooded the comments with supportive messages after hearing the news. One user wrote: “Oh what fantastic news! You will be amazing!”
A second follower called Lorraine said: “Absolutely fantastic can’t wait Richie you’re amazing xx.” Angel said: “Congratulations Richie! Well deserved.”