Paul O'Grady has shared his reaction to the news that BBC Radio 2 will be taking his show off-air until May.
In a lengthy Instagram post, the presenter – who's perhaps best known for performing as Lily Savage in the 1980s and fronting ITV's For The Love of Dogs – explained that he won't be returning in the Sunday evening 5-7pm slot "for quite some time" due to a "new regime" mapped out by the broadcaster.
"Now, I do 13 weeks on and then 13 off, which is nothing to do with me as it's a management decision," O'Grady, 66, revealed. "So, all being well and providing I'm not in India or Borneo, travel restrictions permitting, I should be back some time in May. Take it easy."
Elsewhere, he confirmed that the segment's figures "have shot up" in recent weeks, and noted how grateful he is for everyone's support.
"A great big thank you to everyone who listens. While I'm on the subject, I'd also like to thank my producer... sounds very grand... Malcolm Prince, who is one of the best in the business and hasn't cracked once in the 14 years we've been on air."
Earlier this week, it was announced that stand-up comedian and Celebs Go Dating narrator Rob Beckett would be replacing O'Grady on the Wireless show, which the latter has helmed since 2009.
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"As someone that has inhuman levels of energy, I'm incredibly grateful and excited that the BBC are letting me loose on the airwaves to try and pump up anyone feeling the end-of-weekend blues," the 36-year-old said in a statement.
"Whether your football team lost, your plans got cancelled, or you burnt your roast dinner, we will put a smile on your face – and if you're already smiling, then expect a full Cheshire Cat grin."
