Lamarr takes a break from Buzzcocks

Mark Lamarr is to stand down as host of Never Mind The Buzzcocks, to be replaced by a series of guest hosts.

The acerbic comic, who has hosted the BBC Two pop quiz for the past nine years, plans to take a year-long break from the show.

So, like its stablemate Have I Got News For You, the 2006 series will feature a rotating line-up of comedians, celebrities and musicians in the chair.

Lamarr first said he was bored with the pop quiz four years ago, saying he wanted to move onto new projects, but he has remained in the chair.

Three years ago, Angus Deayton was dropped as host of Have I Got News for You after he was shamed by a series of tabloid revelations. Guest presenters have been as as diverse as William Hague, Anne Robinson and Charlotte Church.

Published: 14 Nov 2005