Evan Davis to replace Jeremy Paxman on ‘Newsnight’
By Sam Rigby
Dragon’s Den
‘s Evan Davis has been confirmed as Jeremy Paxman’s replacement on Newsnight.
The out gay presenter will depart BBC Radio 4’s Today programme to take up the role, which he has been given ahead of current host Emily Maitlis and Newsnight veteran Kirsty Wark.
BBC director-general Lord Hall announced the news today (July 21), describing Davis as “an extraordinarily clever and intelligent interviewer”.
“I think he has a wonderful presence on TV and I have no doubt he will be a really great presenter of Newsnight,” he added.
Davis said: “I can’t deny that I feel terribly sad to be leaving the Today programme. I have been there for over six years and those have been some of the most satisfying of my career. That programme is put together by remarkably few people, and I can’t praise them highly enough for their professionalism and companionship.
“But at the same time, how could I turn down the offer of this role on Newsnight, treading in the footsteps of some of the best television presenters in the business? While it is a scary prospect, it will be an adventure and a challenge, and I hope the viewers will be happy with the result.”
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