The One Show host Matt Baker, 41, struggled to hold back tears as he told viewers he will be leaving the show in March next year. Following the news, many of his loyal fans sent their well wishes on social media.
Today, the host took to Instagram to thank his fans for their support and give them an update about his new role in the pantomime Goldilocks and the Three Bears.
Matt began the video by showing fans his dressing room, where a clothes rail of outfits could be seen.
The presenter then said he will be starring as Joey, an acrobatic, tightrope walker.
Alex Jones’ co-star then showed his 52,000 Instagram followers the tightrope he had been practising on and joked he may be too old for the role.
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He then described his character as an “acrobatic clown,” before adding: “I’m 42 in a few weeks time and I’m too old to be spending this much time upside down.”
He added: “Its a brilliant show, we open this afternoon at 2.30pm, the matinee.
“But, I just wanted to put this little post up to say thank you for all the support you have shown me over the past few days since I announced I was leaving The One Show in March.
“I am totally overwhelmed and blown away by the reaction so thank you so much, and I’ll be back on the sofa in January.”
Following the news, Matt’s co-star Alex Jones reacted to a comment about her co-star being nominated for a knighthood.
The Twitter user wrote: “I’m sure I speak for so many… #Mattbaker should be nominated for a Knighthood.
“All the dedication and hard work… year in… year out for @BBCCiN.
“Doing the #RickshawChallenge can some one help?? @BBCCountryfile @BBCOne @MissAlexjones @mrdanwalker.”
Alex swiftly responded to the comment in view of her 234,000 followers, writing: “I am on it!”
She later shared a statement saying Matt’s place on the sofa will be “hard to fill”.
She wrote: “I would like to say how much I will miss #MattBaker.
“Thank you for sitting by my side for the last 9 years. You are a superb broadcaster, a consummate professional + a dear friend.
“We’ll remain part of each other’s lives but the gap left on the green sofa will be hard to fill x.”
Both Matt and Alex will return to the BBC evening show next month. It is currently unknown who will be replacing Matt.
The One Show continues tomorrow at 7pm on BBC One.