'I plan to concentrate on my live work'

Simon Amstell has quit Never Mind The Buzzcocks.

The comic says he wants to concentrate on his live stand-up after three years in the chair – in a move that is said to have shocked BBC bosses.

Amstell , 29, was largely credited with reviving the pop quiz when he took over from Mark Lamarr in 2006.

He sent out a message to members of his mailing list on Friday night saying: ‘Here is some news, should you be interested in this sort of thing. I will not be hosting another series of the fun pop quiz, Never Mind the Buzzcocks.  

‘When I first took on the role, my only hope was to bring joy and laughter to the world and if I was lucky, put an end to war, disease and poverty. Now that I have achieved that, I plan to concentrate on my live work.

‘Thank you. Please now continue to enjoy your life as best you can.’

It is expected that when the show returns for its 23rd series Amstell will be replaced by a series of guests hosts – as was the case when Lamarr quit after nine years in 2005.

Amstell is currently trying out new material in a regular spot in Camden’s Etcetera Theatre, ahead of an autumn stand-up tour.

Here are some highlights from his time hosting Buzzcocks:

Published: 25 Apr 2009