John Humphrys critiques Radio 4’s Today programme after leaving in 2015

John Humphrys, former presenter of the BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, expresses his discontent with the show he left 7 years ago. In a recent opinion piece, he highlights how the show has changed since his departure, describing it as increasingly annoying due to the presentation style and communication habits of current hosts.

Changes in Presentation Style

Since leaving the Today programme, Humphrys has become a critical listener. He points out the peculiar emphasis some presenters place on definite and indefinite articles. For instance, Amol Rajan’s tendency to stress phrases like “A bomb has exploded in THE palace of Westminster” has drawn his ire. This alteration in delivery is not just a stylistic choice; it significantly impacts the listener's experience.

Gushing Gratitude and Its Implications

Another point of frustration for Humphrys is the excessive gratitude exchanged between hosts and guests. He notes the prevalence of phrases like “Thank you SO much for inviting me on!” which he finds unnecessary. He argues that the correct response should be, “On the contrary. Without someone to interview there’d be no programme.” This shift towards a more sycophantic style detracts from the journalistic integrity of the show.

Listener Expectations and Communication

Humphrys believes that regular listeners of the Today programme are capable of forming their opinions without additional commentary from presenters. He expresses concern over instances where hosts engage in discussions about interviews, suggesting that it undermines the intelligence of the audience. He notes that even some presenters seem uncomfortable with this format.

• Humphrys left the Today programme in 2015 after 33 years.
• He criticizes the current communication style of presenters.
• Excessive gratitude has become a norm in interviews.

Despite these critiques, he acknowledges that the programme has survived budget cuts and remains a staple for many listeners. However, he warns that if the quality continues to decline, he may have to turn to alternatives like Radio 3.