Graham Norton says goodbye amid exit from Virgin Radio show

The presenter confirmed his departure on Saturday, February 24, sharing that he was leaving the station as he wanted to get his “weekends back” after his life “changed a bit”.

Norton has hosted radio weekend shows for 13 years, and he joined Virgin Radio in 2021 after a decade at BBC Radio 2.

Norton has now officially signed off his final Sunday show, thanking listeners for “sharing your life” with the host.

Graeme Norton's final message to Virgin Radio listeners in full as he exits

Speaking to an audience Norton said, “My final thanks must go to you, you, for listening and sharing your life with us.

“We've enjoyed hearing your messages and learning what you've been up to, what you've liked, what you didn't like, what made you happy, what made you sad over the years.

“It has been an honor to sit here and share the weekend with you for the past three years and two months.”

Norton thanked host Chris Evans for “creating this opportunity” for him after he followed in Evans' footsteps by moving from Radio 2 to Virgin Radio.

“I came here about three-and-a-half years ago and Chris was delighted that I came here and saw it happen,” he added.

Norton also thanked the management and his team at Virgin Radio, as well as his regulars and celebrity guests.

Reflecting on his time at the station, he added: “It really is a wonderful place to work here at the top of the tower.

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Graham Norton confirms exit from Virgin Radio show for the weekend

“They created such a good atmosphere and I had nothing but a good time here.”

Norton closed his final show with the first song he played on his Virgin Radio debut, “Hung Up” by superstar singer Madonna.

After the song ended, he joked that his last moments on air were like when you say goodbye to someone and then realize you're both going in the same direction because he's already said goodbye.

He added: “Goodbye again, see you soon … Thank you so much for your company this weekend. I hope you enjoyed the shows.”