Is it possible to be too comfortable? Radio legend Ken Bruce thought so. After decades at BBC Radio 2, the beloved DJ made a surprising leap, leaving behind a familiar slot for a fresh start at Greatest Hits Radio. And now, he’s hinting that his departure might be linked to a dip in Radio 2’s listenership.
In a candid interview, Bruce revealed that he’s feeling rejuvenated since making the switch, a far cry from the “grumpiest man in the world” he felt he was becoming at the BBC. The numbers seem to support his feeling: Bruce’s new show has reportedly seen its audience double since he joined. But here’s where it gets controversial… Is this simply a case of a talented DJ finding a better fit, or does it expose deeper issues within BBC Radio 2?
Bruce’s journey with the BBC spanned an impressive 46 years. He first joined the corporation in 1977 at BBC Radio Scotland and graced Radio 2 airwaves with his presence, starting with the Saturday Late Show in 1984. He then took the reins of the coveted Radio 2 Breakfast Show in 1985, succeeding the iconic Sir Terry Wogan. A move to mid-mornings followed in 1986, and after a brief period hosting late-night and early-morning shows, he returned to his beloved mid-morning slot in January 1992, where he remained until his departure in March 2023.
Speaking to Saga magazine, Bruce explained his decision to leave, stating that he felt he was stagnating. “I was 71, I’d done the same job for a long time and I started to think, ‘Is that it? Next stop the scrapheap?’” he said. For Bruce, the move wasn’t just about a new job; it was about a new lease on life. “I decided – and I’m sure there are lots of people out there in the same position – that it was time to shake things up. New place and new people, full of enthusiasm for the show. Retirement any time soon? Not a chance!”
Now 74, and recently appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his contributions to radio, Bruce is clearly thriving in his new environment. He hosts a mid-morning show from 10am to 1pm on Greatest Hits Radio.
And this is the part most people miss: Bruce isn’t just focused on his own success. He actively supports his new colleagues. “I want to know what our guys are up to, so I listen to our shows,” he said. When asked if he listens to Vernon Kay, who took over his former Radio 2 slot, Bruce admitted he doesn’t, emphasizing his loyalty to his new “family” at Bauer Radio.
While careful not to “gloat or badmouth the BBC,” Bruce acknowledges the reported decline in Radio 2’s audience figures since his departure, and the fact that some listeners followed him to Greatest Hits Radio.
Beyond his professional life, Bruce credits being an older father with keeping him young. He and his third wife, Kerith, whom he married in 2000, have three children: Murray (23), Verity (20), and Charlie (17). He also has three grown-up children from his first two marriages: Campbell (46), Douglas (44), and Kate (33). Bruce openly discusses the challenges and joys of raising Murray, who is autistic, highlighting Kerith’s dedication to supporting him. “I was 57 when Charlie arrived and, yes, being an older parent can be hard but it keeps your mind and body active…Murray is autistic and we like to have him living with us…Kerith deals with it all…filling in forms, speaking to the right people.”
So, what does all this mean? Is Ken Bruce’s success at Greatest Hits Radio a direct reflection of issues at BBC Radio 2? Could the BBC be losing touch with its audience? Or is this simply the natural ebb and flow of radio listenership, with Bruce’s move just a catalyst for change?
One could argue that Bruce’s departure highlights a broader trend of experienced talent seeking new opportunities outside the traditional broadcasting giants. Some might even suggest that the BBC’s efforts to attract younger audiences have inadvertently alienated long-time listeners. What do you think? Has BBC Radio 2 lost its way, or is this just a temporary blip? Share your thoughts in the comments below!