Karen Koster confirmed the news that she would be stepping down as a host of The Six O’Clock Show.
She told the audience of her decision on Monday night to the surprise of viewers.
The longtime Virgin Media host explained that she wanted to spend more time with her family and spending her afternoons and evenings in the studio was taking that opportunity away.
She confirmed the news on social media, writing: “Even though I’ve been thinking about this for months, now that I’ve said it on air, it’s all starting to feel real.
View this post on Instagram
“I’m finishing up on @sixoclockshow next week for the simple reason that I just need to be home more with my family in the evenings. I have had a ball presenting this show for over two years, and I’ve been so lucky to be surrounded by a wonderful production team, producers, gallery crew and of course my work bestie Greg.”
She continued: “Truthfully the only downside to The Six O’Clock show, is that it’s on at 6 O’Clock! And that’s simply a time when I need to be at home, rather than in the studio. But I’ll always be around to mind the mothership should the team need me to jump back into the hotseat.
“Thank you for tuning in and for all the lovely comments I get when I’m out and about. I’m looking forward to sitting down and watching the show as a fan, just like I did before. But for now, it’s time to hand over the baton and start the next chapter. But not just yet, I’ve a few shows in me still.”
Her co-host, Greg O’Shea commented: “This is honestly heartbreaking but it makes complete sense. Family comes first.
“I can’t emphasise enough how amazing you are as a person and obviously a presenter. You’ll be sorely missed but I’m looking forward to presenting the last few shows with you TV bestie!”
Tommy Bowe added: “Ahh congrats on the announcement Karen! You’ll be missed SO much but defo the right call! I’m sure we’ll get to catch up for a good laugh soon.”
“Nooooooooooooooo! I love, love, love watching you, your warmth, your fun, your intelligence, your ridiculously gorgeous hair. Sitting beside back on the couch soon, I hope,” Muireann O’Connell.
