Paddy McGuinness got Sue Barker's approval before replacing her on 'A Question of Sport'.
Paddy McGuinness
The 48-year-old TV host is replacing the former tennis star as the presenter of the long-running BBC sports quiz, but Paddy made sure that Sue, 65, was fine with the move before he accepted the role.
Speaking to The Sun newspaper, he said: “It’s a big change — Sue’s been the host for the last 20 years or so.
“That was in the back of my mind so I rang her up and had a really good chat with her and she was so nice and supportive.
“For me personally, once I spoke to Sue, the rest will be what it will be.
"My priority was taking over from Sue and treating that with respect because of how loved she is.”
Paddy admits his own sporting knowledge is relatively limited, but his biggest concern is just being able to pronounce the names of the contestants.
He added: “As long as I can read, I’m OK.
"I’ve got the answers right in front of me - I’ve just got to pronounce everybody’s names correctly.”
The shake-up of the show is thought to be owing to BBC director general Tim Davie attempting to attract a younger audience.
Team captains Matt Dawson and Phil Tufnell are also being replaced by younger sporting stars, in the shape of Sam Quek and Ugo Monye.
Speaking earlier this year, when the change to the line-up was announced, BBC Director of Entertainment Kate Philips, said: “Paddy will be a great host, bringing his own wit and warmth to a very important role.
"And although he’s a bit of a sports fanatic he’s more than met his match in the form of Sam and Ugo; both incredible athletes who are still incredibly competitive!
"Sue Matt and Phil leave big shoes to fill, and it will be exciting to see what this new talented trio bring to the show.”
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