After more than 26 years and over 1,000 episodes, Melvyn Bragg has stepped down from presenting BBC Radio 4’s In Our Time.
The broadcaster has hosted every edition of the long-running series since it launched in 1998, covering subjects ranging from the age of the Universe to Zenobia, Queen of the Palmyrene Empire. Over that time he has welcomed hundreds of leading academics and reached audiences worldwide.
In Our Time remains one of Radio 4’s most listened to programmes and is consistently popular on BBC Sounds, particularly with listeners under 35. While he will no longer front the series, Bragg will continue to contribute to Radio 4, with a new project already planned for 2026.
Talking about his decision, Bragg said: “For a programme with a wholly misleading title which started from scratch with a six-month contract, it’s been quite a ride! I much look forward to continuing to work for the BBC on Radio 4. Thank you for listening.”
BBC Director General Tim Davie praised his impact: “Through In Our Time on Radio 4 he has brought depth, insight, and humanity to our airwaves every single week for more than a quarter of a century.”
Radio 4 Controller Mohit Bakaya added: “His fierce intellect, coupled with a wonderful curiosity and extraordinary passion for knowledge, marks him out as one of the broadcasting greats. Though we will miss him on In Our Time, he leaves behind a unique legacy.”
Radio 4 will broadcast a curated selection of Bragg’s most favourite episodes later this year, available on air and BBC Sounds. A new presenter for In Our Time will be announced in due course.
This story first appeared on radiotoday.co.uk