John Humphrys joins Classic FM
Dec 2019 RadioWorks Blog
Classic FM has revealed its Sunday schedule for 2020, which will see former BBC Radio 4 host, John Humphrys join its weekend line-up. From 5th January, Humphrys will present his own Sunday afternoon show from 3pm to 5pm, sharing his own stories and reflections on his favourite composers and their music.
John becomes a permanent member of Classic FM’s weekend team – which includes Moira Stuart, Alexander Armstrong, Bill Turnbull, Alan Titchmarsh and Myleene Klass – following a highly successful week presenting the station’s More Music Breakfast show in October, while regular presenter Tim Lihoreau was on holiday.
John Humphrys said: “How could I resist a music station like Classic FM after a lifetime on the news beat! It’s proof positive that there really is a life after politics. And a rather more inspiring one at that.”
As part of the refreshed weekend schedule for 2020, Charlotte Hawkins will host a new Sunday night edition of Smooth Classics at Seven, moving from her previous afternoon timeslot (3pm to 5pm). Her popular Young Classical Star feature will continue in her new show, where she shines the spotlight on up-and-coming artists.
Charlotte Hawkins said: “I can’t wait to start the New Year presenting a new show on Classic FM. Smooth Classics at Seven will be the perfect way to unwind and enjoy those last hours of the weekend, with some of the most relaxing classical music you will ever hear.”
“I’m also really pleased to be continuing my Young Classical Star feature on my new programme, which I first launched when I joined Classic FM two years ago. I’m passionate about championing up-and-coming classical artists, and I’m excited to be able to bring some more fantastic young musicians to you in 2020.”
David Mellor’s Sunday evening show moves to a new timeslot of 5pm to 7pm, with familiar favourites and off-the-beaten-track discoveries. He will begin 2020 with a mini-series of music that provides the perfect antidote to the January blues. His show will replace The Classic FM Chart, presented by John Brunning, who will continue to host Classic FM’s popular weekday drivetime programme, between 5pm to 7pm, and Smooth Classics at Seven (7pm to 8pm).
Sam Jackson, Classic FM’s Senior Managing Editor said: “As we launch our new Sunday schedule on Classic FM, it is fantastic to welcome John Humphrys to our weekend line-up. We had a hugely positive reaction from our listeners when John guest-presented Classic FM’s More Music Breakfast in October, so we are really pleased he has made the UK’s most popular classical music station his home. With Charlotte Hawkins hosting our new Sunday evening edition of Smooth Classics at Seven and a new timeslot for the ever-popular David Mellor, we look forward to welcoming more listeners to Classic FM in 2020.”
