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- Fiona Bruce is the 2/1 favourite to take over from Jeremy Paxman as host of University Challenge
- Jeremy Paxman has hosted the show since 1994
- New presenter will be announced next week
Fiona Bruce is the 2/1 favourite to take over from Jeremy Paxman as host of University Challenge
The BBC announced on Tuesday that Jeremy Paxman will be stepping down as the host of University Challenge, 28 years on from his first show.
Bookmakers have instantly made Fiona Bruce the favourite to take over from Paxman due to her experience on big BBC shows.
Richard Osman is 3/1 in the odds according to Betfair after leaving Pointless earlier this year to focus on his fiction writing career.
| Next University Challenge Host | Odds | Probability |
|---|---|---|
| Fiona Bruce | 2/1 | 33.3% |
| Sandi Toksvig | 2/1 | 33.3% |
| Richard Osman | 3/1 | 25.0% |
| Victoria Cohen Mitchell | 7/2 | 22.2% |
| Clive Myrie | 5/1 | 16.7% |
Fiona Bruce has a 33.3% chance of hosting University Challenge according to bookies, with Sandi Toksvig joint favourite in the market.
Toksvig has hosted QI since 2016 as well as being a popular host during her time presenting Great British Bake Off.
Jeremy Paxman has hosted the show since 1994
It's been 28 years of hosting University Challenge for Jeremy Paxman and he now feels it's best to step down.
Paxman was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease last year and currently stands as the longest-serving quiz host on British TV.
Jeremy Paxman said: "I've had a blast hosting this wonderful series for nearly 29 years."
"I've been lucky enough to work with an amazing team and to meet some of the swottier brains in the country. It gives me hope for the future".
New presenter will be announced next week
According to the Daily Mail, a new host of University Challenge will be announced at some point within the next week.
Victoria Cohen Mitchell currently presents another BBC television quiz show in Only Connect.
This may make BBC look towards Cohen Mitchell for the role, with bookmakers giving her a 22.2% chance according to the betting odds.
