Countdown host Colin Murray reveals ‘the atmosphere has changed’ since Anne Robinson’s exit

Countdown presenter Colin Murray has shared his thoughts on Anne Robinson’s alleged feud with Rachel Riley.

The Northern Irish presenter, 46, officially took over hosting duties from the former Weakest Link star, 78, earlier this year after she quit after just a year amid tensions with her co-stars.

And touching briefly on the highly publicized feud, Colin hinted that there were some tensions, but they have now dissipated after Anne’s departure.

He said diplomatically The mirror: ‘The atmosphere has changed and that is enormous.’

Colin’s honest response may be due to the fact that he has not met Anne in person.

Awkward: The Northern Irish presenter, 46, officially took over hosting duties from the former Weakest Link star, 78, earlier this year after she quit after just a year amid tensions with her co-stars

Elsewhere, Colin opened up about his joy at landing his dream job, admitting that he initially turned down the role because he didn’t want to be a stopgap again.

The radio star’s hopes were initially dashed after Anne was given the top job following Nick Hewer’s departure as presenter.

So when Anne quit and the Channel 4 producers came knocking, Colin revealed that he had given an ultimatum to ensure his longevity on the show.

He said, ‘I said, no. I couldn’t bear the thought of being another one night stand. It would have been professionally heartbreaking. I think my words were: ‘You have to give me three months’.’

Colin added that he had previously felt “down” while filling in for the show following Anne’s departure before landing the permanent job this year.

He said: ‘I was so down when we shot the first episodes of series 87. “I thought, if they haven’t given it to me now, they’re not going to.”

It comes after Colin reportedly split from his wife of over ten years Carly Paradis.

The presenter is said to have parted ways with his composer wife after she struggled to cope with their busy work schedules.

Changes: Briefly touching on the highly publicized feud, Colin hinted that there were some tensions, but they have now subsided following Anne’s departure

Unknown: Colin’s honest response may be due to the fact that he did not meet Anne in person

Decision: Elsewhere, Colin opened up about his joy at landing his dream job, admitting he initially turned down the role because he didn’t want to be a stopgap again

He replaced former presenter Anne Robinson last year, while Carly contributed to the music for popular shows such as Line Of Duty.

According to The sunsources shared that the couple split last year, shortly after Colin took up hosting duties on Countdown.

Also hosting a BBC Radio 5 Live show, sources claimed the duo were ‘pushed apart’ by work commitments.

“Colin and Carly have been open to their friends and family about their split and are trying to move on as best they can,” the source said.

While the host seemed to confirm he lived alone when speaking to Radio Times magazine, when they asked who controls the television remote in his house, he replied, “It’s just me, so it’s me.” I am the master of my domain.’