Vernon Kay was surprised by claims that he's too young to host a show on BBC Radio 2.
Vernon Kay is set to host a show on BBC Radio 2
The 49-year-old star is replacing veteran broadcaster Ken Bruce on Radio 2, and Vernon admits he made a "mistake" by checking social media after the news was announced.
He told The Sun newspaper: "The reaction [to the announcement] was interesting because the first thing you do in this day and age is look at social media, which is a mistake, obviously.
"Apart from obvious fans of Ken - which is pretty much everyone - it’s largely been pretty positive, though.
"But I also had the best trolling I’ve ever had: ‘It’s a disgrace that young Vernon Kay is taking over!' Young? I’m 50 next year! I will file all of these insults.
"But it goes to show how much it means to people - you’re a part of everyday life for a broad section of our communities."
Vernon is looking forward to the challenge, despite the mixed reaction from the public.
The TV and radio star - who is married to presenter Tess Daly - explained: "The demographic at Radio 2 is so huge.
"My dad is a lorry driver, my mum worked in a department store, my brother is a primary school teacher, my mates are gasmen, plumbers, teachers, and one works in a brewery, so hopefully I’ve got a lot of experience to cover a lot of social demographics."
Ken, 72, hosted his own show on Radio 2 for more than three decades.
But Vernon admits he still hasn't spoken to the broadcaster about his experiences.
He shared: "I’ve not got his number so no, I haven’t spoken to him since it was announced.
"I didn’t know him that well, although he did come and watch me in pantomime once.
"I’d love to speak to him though, and raise a glass. I’m sure we will at some stage."
Tagged in Tess Daly Vernon Kay