Anne Robinson quits Weakest Link - BBC News BBC News Anne Robinson quits Weakest Link 23 April 2011 Image caption Robinson: You are the weakest link, goodbye. Weakest Link host Anne Robinson has quit the TV quiz show, the BBC has confirmed. Robinson, nicknamed "the queen of mean" for her acerbic put-downs, has been the host for 11 years, and the quiz will end in spring 2012 after 1,690 shows. "It's been superb, so it's a hard decision," she told the Guardian . There have been more than 15,000 contestants and more than 235,000 questions asked. She will continue to appear on Watchdog and My Life in Books on the BBC. "If there's anything about longevity in television, it's about knowing what to take and what to turn down, and what to stop. It's often about what not to do any more," she said. I remember seeing the pilot episode and not being at all convinced she was right for the show.

Liam Keelan, Controller of BBC Daytime BBC TV Blog In an interview in the Guardian, she dismissed reports about her contract: "My fee wasn't cut. I said I'd do 10 years and then, because we went to [BBC] Scotland and they were brilliant, I did a year more than I intended to do." She was known for her catchphrase - "You are the weakest link, goodbye" - said to each contestant as they were voted off after each round. Liam Keelan, controller of BBC Daytime, said: "The Weakest Link has been a hugely important and much-loved part of the BBC's schedules for well over a decade. "But without Anne's iconic persona and acerbic wit, we have decided that we won't be recommissioning any new episodes following her departure." Special episodes of the show will be filmed in Glasgow in December and the final series will go off air next spring.

South Africa’s 'Weakest Link’ presenter found dead at home - Telegraph South Africa South Africa’s 'Weakest Link’ presenter found dead at home The South African host of The Weakest Link, who was hailed as “better than Anne Robinson”, has been found dead at her home near Cape Town after apparently committing suicide. Fiona Coyne beat 500 hopefuls to the job and flew to London to train with Miss Robinson in 2003 By Aislinn Laing, Johannesburg 5:00PM BST 19 Aug 2010 The body of 45-year-old Fiona Coyne was found in her bedroom by her housekeeper and two notes - one for the housekeeper and one for her mother - were discovered nearby. She also left instructions for her ex-husband, Willie Fritz, who she was divorced eight months ago after 22 years of marriage, to look after her two pet dogs. Friends paid tribute to a “feisty and fabulous” woman who had thrown herself into the role of acerbic game host. The playwright, actress and author of 'Who Moved My Ladder?

The Working Woman’s Guide to Succcess’, beat 500 hopefuls to the job and flew to London to train with Miss Robinson in 2003. Playwright John Kani said that her razor-sharp wit made her perfect for the role. “Her role in The Weakest Link proved that South Africans can do better than the internationals even at their own shows,” he said. Kee-Leen Irvine, the show’s producer, said: “Coyne might have been petite, but she was a giant as far as her talent, professionalism and work ethic was concerned. “She had no tolerance for stupidity but she had a heart of gold.” Anne Robinson lookalike host of South Africa's Weakest Link found dead in suspected suicide | Daily Mail Online comments The presenter of the South African version of Weakest Link has been found dead at her home in Cape Town in a suspected suicide. Actress Fiona Coyne, 45, who bore an uncanny resemblance to Anne Robinson, was understood to have left two notes at her house – one addressed to her mother Dolly Coyne and another for her housekeeper of six years, Zoleka Shumani.

Coyne had reportedly made arrangements regarding her possessions prior to her death, including instructions to sell the house and divide the proceeds. The Weakest Link: Fiona Coyne, left, modelled herself on Anne Robinson physically and in her barbed style of presentation Ms Shumani found the letter addressed to her on the kitchen table, which the 36-year-old housekeeper said began by telling her that Coyne was very sorry and that she should call police immediately. 'She even had the number written down for me,' said Ms Shumani. Coyne had apparently also written that Ms Shumani could take anything in the house that she wished, including jewelry. 'I did not realize what was happening and telephoned the police immediately.' It is believed the letter states that Coyne had not intended to punish anyone but that she weighed-up the pros and cons of her life and then took the fateful decision. The letters indicate that her biggest fears were of failure and of growing old alone, having split from her ex-husband Willie Fritz, who has been asked to look after her two dogs Malaika and Tamu.

Ginger-haired Coyne modelled herself on Anne Robinson’s look with black leather-type coats and long dresses, glasses and a retinue of cutting put-downs to guests. Send in the clones: Like Anne Robinson, Fiona Coyne was know for her sharp put-downs and sarcastic quips Like Ms Robinson, contestants on the quick-fire quiz were not spared a tongue-lashing if they appeared too cocky or failed to answer easy questions. Police in Cape Town today said Coyne was found dead at her home in Fish Hoek and not in a car crash which had been reported earlier in the day. Warrant Officer November Philander said: 'We can confirm that her body was discovered at 08:40 by her domestic worker.' Although she was best known for presenting the Weakest Link in South Africa, Coyne was an accomplished theatre actress as well as communications specialist. Ms Lulu Xingwana, minister of arts and culture, said of Coyne's death : 'We are all deeply shocked by the death of Fiona Coyne.

South Africa has lost a talented and versatile woman.' The Weakest Link was first broadcast by the BBC 10 years ago since when it has been syndicated to more than 40 countries including Azerbaijan, Lebanon and Panama. Anne Robinson - IMDb IMDb Actress Born Anne Josephine Robinson on September 26, 1944 in Crosby, Liverpool, England, this famous host of the BBC and NBC quiz show The Weakest Link (2001) started her career as a journalist for Rediffusion. She made her way up by working on the Daily Mail, Sunday Times and Daily Mirror. It was at the Mirror where she was to make her mark, being ... See full bio » Born: Anne Robinson to leave BBC's Watchdog after 15 years | Media | The Guardian Anne Robinson to leave BBC's Watchdog after 15 years Former The Weakest Link presenter to return with new BBC series next year Anne Robinson: saying goodbye to the BBC’s Watchdog.

Photograph: BBC Thursday 10 September 2015 06.52 EDT Last modified on Thursday 11 August 2016 06.10 EDT Close This article is 1 year old Anne Robinson is to step down as presenter of Watchdog after 15 years to film a new factual series for the BBC. Robinson will begin work on the new series this autumn, but no other details have been announced. The BBC said Robinson’s successful turn presenting Britain’s Spending Secrets, which attracted 5.7 million viewers, had led it to commission Robinson for the new series. BBC1 controller Charlotte Moore said: “Anne is a much-treasured part of the BBC1 family and I’m grateful for everything she has done on Watchdog for nearly 15 years. I’m looking forward to her returning to the channel with a new factual series next year.” “It’s been an honour to be part of the most important consumer show in Britain,” said Robinson.

Robinson brought her acerbic wit not only to the consumer affairs programme but also famously to game show The Weakest Link, where her catchphrase was the bitting put-down “You are the Weakest Link – goodbye.” Last month she spoke out about TV’s attitude to older women, telling the Radio Times they were more likely to be axed because of their age than their male colleagues and had to be more “clever, versatile, funny and thin” to avoid the chop. A new lineup for Watchdog, which has been broadcast for 35 years, is yet to be announced, but current presenters Matt Allwright and Chris Hollins will continue on the show. Weakest Link (TV Series 2001–2003) - IMDb IMDb There was an error trying to load your rating for this title. Some parts of this page won't work property. Please reload or try later. X Beta I'm Watching This! Keep track of everything you watch; tell your friends. Error In this hybrid of "Inquizition" and "Survivor," contestants test their trivial mettle as a team and against each other. After each round of play, the team votes out the most expendable ...

See full summary » Stars: a list of 46 titles created 12 Jan 2013 a list of 569 titles created 17 Apr 2014 a list of 893 titles created 03 Oct 2014 a list of 106 titles created 8 months ago a list of 104 titles created 6 months ago Search for " Weakest Link " on Amazon.com Connect with IMDb Title: Weakest Link (2001–2003) 5.5/10 Want to share IMDb's rating on your own site? Use the HTML below. You must be a registered user to use the IMDb rating plugin. Add Image Add an image Do you have any images for this title? British general knowledge quiz show which spawned imitations around the world, notably in the USA. Stars: Anne Robinson, Jon Briggs, Adam Woodyatt 1 vs. 100 (TV Series 2006) Game-Show One contestant competes against 100 people by answering trivia questions for a chance to win a huge cash prize.

Stars: Bob Saget, Dexter Takashi Odani, Richard Rubin Contestants, selected by calling a phone number, are chosen based on their ability to arrange 4 answers to a question in the correct order the fastest. They then have to answer 15 ... See full summary » Stars: Regis Philbin, Rick Rosner, Danny Bonaduce The original British version of the quiz show that's become a worldwide hit. Host Chris Tarrant asks hopeful contestants a series of questions, each more difficult than the last. As the ... See full summary » Stars: Chris Tarrant, Eamonn Holmes, Stephen Fry A series of knowledge contestants use a telephone, audience input and eliminations to answer trivia questions for an escalating tier of cash prizes. Stars: Meredith Vieira, Chris Harrison, Terry Crews The Chase I (TV Series 2009) Game-Show A Game Show where contestants must compete against 'The Chasers' in a variety of questions in order to win money. Stars: Bradley Walsh, Jenny Ryan, Mark Labbett "Family Feud" was one of the most popular game shows on TV, but after nine years with Richard Dawson as host, ratings were starting to slip.

In 1986, producers decided that the "Family Feud... See full summary » Stars: Ray Combs, Gene Wood, Jackie Stallone Pointless Celebrities (TV Series 2010) Game-Show Celebrities try to find the most obscure answers to win money for their chosen charities. Stars: Alexander Armstrong, Richard Osman, Anton du Beke The long-running words and numbers game. Stars: Carol Vorderman, Richard Whiteley, Susie Dent Ca$h Cab (TV Series 2005) Game-Show | Reality-TV Contestants unknowingly climb into a cab and try to win money by answering questions correctly on the way to their desired location. Stars: Ben Bailey, Alejandra, Jennifer Cody Member of the public go head to head in a series if obstacle courses to win 10,000 Stars: Richard Hammond, Amanda Byram, Joanna Chappell Family Feud (TV Series 1999) Comedy | Game-Show Hosted by Steve Harvey , two families battle it out by answering survey questions for a chance to win $20,000 and, after 5 wins, a new car.

Stars: Steve Harvey, Rubin Ervin, Burton Richardson Edit Storyline In this hybrid of "Inquizition" and "Survivor," contestants test their trivial mettle as a team and against each other. After each round of play, the team votes out the most expendable member, who instantly gets the biting send off of "You are the Weakest Link. Goodbye." In the end, only one player goes home with any money. Written by ZeroG1 16 April 2001 (USA) See more » Also Known As: The Weakest Link USA See more » Filming Locations: Did You Know? Trivia One of the few TV shows of any kind in the United States where music was playing at all times. See more » Quotes [All the contestants are look-a-likes of Anne] Anne : It is truly embarrassing to stand among you. I might even sue. (United States) – See all my reviews If you love the way "Millionaire" is played on ABC, you will forget all about it after watching "Weakest Link." Weakest Link first aired on NBC in mid 2000, it's in it's second season.

It stars Anne Robinson (voted the meanest host on television by BBC) The game starts with 8 players. The first round is 2 and a half minutes and decreases 10 seconds each round after. The objective is to get 8 questions CORRECTLY AND IN A ROW to get your $125,000. You can bank earlier if you want (but money value is much less if you bank too early) At the end of the round the real fun begins. You vote off the person you "think" is the Weakest Link. Once votes are revealed, Anne insults the players. It's so funny, you'll laugh with the audiance in the background! "Link" is on Sunday and Monday nights on NBC and Friday nights on the PAX network. 5 of 6 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes BBC News | REVIEWS | The Weakest Link: Your views Thursday, 19 April, 2001, 18:01 GMT 19:01 UK The Weakest Link: Your views Anne Robinson: Is she as scary as she is billed to be?

The Weakest Link is rocketing to the top of the US ratings, with almost 15 million viewers tuning in to see notorious presenter Anne Robinson do her worst. NBC, the network broadcasting the show, say she is the "Cruella de Vil" of gameshows, whose cutting comments make contestants "quake before her". Some fans of the show are even reported to have nightmares about the red-headed matriarch, saying she has taken over from the "bogeyman". Is this all just hype, or does Robinson live up to her reputation? Having been a contestant on the show myself, I can't believe half the stuff that's been written on here. No-one goes on the show under any illusions and no-one goes off feeling bad. Most people who decide to go on the show (and they know what they're letting themselves in for) go on because they have the ability to laugh at themselves. And no-one tells you that you're not allowed to answer back at Anne. In fact, she enjoys it, everyone says they're going to answer back but under the studio lights many people don't.

Anne is in fact (from the experience I've had) an authoritative but charming woman shown out of context by the editing on TV, which wants to show the edgy parts - that's what sets the show out from the others after all! Nick Gates, England Are we surprised that contestants are offered therapy after facing humiliation? This nation uses any old excuse to sue big firms for unbelievable amounts of money. Traumatised indeed...it's only a game - get a grip you US idiots. Ayesha, UK Why do people complain about how rubbish The Weakest Link is? It is not only Americans that she puts down for not answering a question.. it goes for the British, too, just the same. The Jerry Springer show is a lot worse! And a lot more stupid! I cannot believe people actually go on that show. Mantas, UK I am embarrassed by some of the xenophobic and anti-British comments I have read by my fellow Americans, who would love the show if we had thought of it first. If contestants can't understand her accent, that says more about their limitations than about Anne. I love her. More of the same, please.

And, please, fellow Americans, if you're not smart enough to get the joke, try a different channel. Anne Robinson proves that the Brits have a talent that us Americans will never have - a self-depreciating sense of irony. Michael Sanchez, USA How come no-one reacted against Jeremy Paxman who is always putting down students (who don't answer well) on his University Challenge quiz? Is it a gender issue...again?! A Parks, England People of Anne Robinson's ilk are one of the main reasons I was glad to leave England for the friendlier climes of the USA and I've never regretted it. What I do regret, however, is that we now have to put up with her snotty, spiteful and rude behaviour over here. I guess the English like to spread the pain around. Vile and loathsome are the two words that immediately come to mind on this show. Amanda Bradley, USA I returned to my New York home from my London one last week - so had the chance to see both the UK and US shows within the same week. In the US version, Anne is noticeably more uptight, and is hamming up the 'snippy school-marm' personality.

The fact that the US contenders are much less humble than the Brits, and less willing to admit that any fault is theirs, may contribute to Anne's US edginess. I much prefer her more relaxed, slightly ironic UK show persona - though I must admit I am not a regular viewer! Marie Fleming, UK/USA I'm a Brit living in US and I've never seen the show in the UK. She wasn't nearly as 'rude' as I expected. I thought I would be cringing throughout the show but I found her pretty lowkey. Has Anne toned herself down for the American market? Kris, USA Rude, arrogant, supercilious, and not very good looking. Typical Brit. Thank heavens for the change. P. Cummins, Canada Is Anne the scariest person the UK has to offer? If so, it certainly doesn't take much to scare a Brit. Maggie, USA She's great! Maybe this will get the pendulum swinging away from the political correctness that bogs us down Tom, USA I absolutely love the show! The questions are much more intellectually challenging than Millionaire or other US game shows.

As for Anne, I find her a breath of fresh air from Regis or Alex Trebek. Anne's dry humour and cutting remarks are funny and are all in good fun, even if some of the contestants don't view them as such. I really don't see what the controversy is about. And her accent isn't at all hard to understand, no less clear than Regis or Judge Judy, who by the way is worse than Anne by far! Andy, USA A bit shocked at first but now really enjoying the show. More fast-paced than "Who wants to be a Millionaire" and on Wednesday's show, some of the contestants were actually smiling at Anne's caustic remarks. It's just a lark really. Fond memories of "Points of View" some years ago with Anne's pleasant face and humorous comments. Good on you Anne. Marion Andrew, Canada She's great! Maybe this will get the pendulum swinging away from the political correctness that bogs us down. Where did they dig up these idiots though? It has convinced me to send my son to private school. Tom O, USA Lighten up people! It's just a show, meant to entertain, and Anne is an entertainer.

If you don't like her, don't watch her show. As for the people who are bitter when they are voted off, the odds were 7 to 1 against them winning. What did they expect. Finally, having lived in the UK and watched the show there a few times, I was always surprised by how low the winnings were, usually around GBP 2000. The lowest jackpot so far in the US has been around $35,000. It's much more interesting to watch with the higher stakes! Cal, USA Hi British cousins! We love you, but you can keep Anne Robinson. She's obnoxious. Kim Righetti, USA It is a truly sad day when antagonism, cynicism, spitefulness, and rude behaviour are exported by the English to the United States Reverend James C. Lovette-Black It appears people are taking Anne Robinson too seriously. It's just typical British wit ratcheted up several notches. As an American, I'm put off not by Ms Robinson but by the apparent stupidity of the players. Sad reflection of our educational system here. To all you complainers about Ms Robinson - get a life!

James Duke, USA As for the hostess, I think she'll be a flash in the pan here in the States. There seems to be at least one contestant in each episode who can't understand her accent. One got genuinely flustered when asked the location of the Kentucky 'Darby' (we don't pronounce it that way over here). Overall, I find the show extremely annoying, rude, and designed to foster bad relations between contestants. 'Millionaire' is much more fun to watch, and Regis will be around long after Anne and her black trenchcoats hop the flight back to the UK. Robert Hansen, USA I feel so sorry for all those Americans who wouldn't mind if Anne Robinson, dressed in tights and a cape, were firing a machine gun and mowing down dozens of people in one go every few minutes. But they are all queasy and upset when she treats uninformed contestants with disdain. How mean and vicious! It's good to see a quiz show that dares to ask questions about something other than TV shows and shopping. It's too bad that so many Americans feel it is unfair to demand more of them than the disgusting Regis.

Lee Zaslofsky, Canada It is a truly sad day when antagonism, cynicism, spitefulness, and rude behaviour are exported by the English to the United States. After all, that is what the USA is used to doing, is it not? There is enough misery in our world without Ms Robinson adding to it. Whatever happened to civility, courtesy, and pleasant socialising? Oh, that's right - it does not make money. Reverend James C. Lovette-Black, USA The Weakest Link is the best game show on American television. Anne is fantastic - it's about time someone was brutally honest with people who are neither clever nor smart. She should be the model upon which all schoolteachers in the substandard US school system should be based - firm and uncompromising in her quest for perfection, yet gives praise when praise is deserved. Alan, USA I had an employee ask me today if Anne Robinson was related to Margaret Thatcher because they "look and act very similar". I think the Americans still have that soft spot for a British iron lady James Bishop, USA The Weakest Link fits in perfectly with US television's fascination with accommodating the lowest common denominators - humiliation and meanness.

This show must be the UK's vengeance for our classy exports like Baywatch and Jerry Springer. Michael Sundquist, USA The Americans don't know what's hit them. To date, their home-grown gameshow hosts have been over-cheerful and on the side of the contestants, Anne Robinson has turned that on its head. Her performance is a bit more measured than in the UK. She makes sure she pronounces her speech perfectly. Occasionally she is asked to repeat a question. But as she said last night, "Is there no beginning to your knowledge.....you are the weakest link. Goodbye!" Long may she reign. Simon Gleed, USA (British) It is stupid for the BBC to call The Weakest Link a success only after two nights (does one swallow make a summer?) Wait for a few weeks. A lot of people have watched it for novelty value and many will tune off eventually. The programme has an interesting format but I can't see how Anne Robinson can make it here. Americans hate Brits in general - her accent is hard to follow, she seems out-of-touch with Americana. She seems like a frustrated schoolmistress. Perhaps a different American host can make this a success.

Jay Sinclair, USA I think she's great. Everyone that I've spoken to over here is watching the programme. Anne Robinson has always been a great presenter at home, I grew up watching Watchdog, and yes, she was forthright and strong, but I thought she was doing a wonderful job. Watch out America - the show will do really well and so will she! Marie, USA As an expat living in Philadelphia, I thought I had escaped that awful women. Imagine my suprise this morning when I heard people talking about it! There were mixed reviews but they were generally good! Do I have to move again to avoid that dreadful presenter? Ben Fraser, USA Well, I'm an expat now living in Mississippi. I think it's great to have The Weakest Link on over here. I caught the show a few times while back in Britain over Christmas and became instantly hooked. I had an employee ask me today if Anne Robinson was related to Margaret Thatcher because they "look and act very similar". I think the Americans still have that soft spot for a British iron lady!

James Bishop, USA It is interesting to see some outcomes: some team players who did not do well at the beginning ended up winning, some opportunists went all the way to the end without really a merit on their score, some folks who did very well were discarded by their team members, based on what? On the negative side, I saw prejudice played out on the spot: blacks and women (in that order) seemed to be considered a weak link regardless of how well they performed. Not new, it just exposes the ills of American society and stereotypes. It is a great game in that sense. Dieudonne Mayi, USA I love her! She's scary and hilarious. I have yet to speak to anyone who doesn't like her. Granted, I'm not sure I'd like to be a target of her barbs, but it sure is fun to see others get theirs! I think the show is in for a long run in America. Paul Evans, USA I hope this import is soon rejected and returned to sender. Anne Wynn, USA Ms Robinson and the Weakest Link blow Millionaire and Jeopardy out of the water. She is more charismatic than the other TV hosts.

Her wit is a welcome change from the boring dialogue that the other two men try to come up with to interact with the contestants. Hurrah for the new British import. Marisela, USA I just don't like her. She is abrasive and unattractive. Who needs that? Even Regis gets old after a while, though he is funny and one gets acquainted with the contestants. On this show they are wooden and freeze at the simplest questions. Agnes Fair, USA Sarcasm at its highest, most sophisticated level yet. Here's to another British invasion - are there more where she comes from? Tom Nixon, USA I watched The Weakest Link last night and really enjoyed it. Robinson was cruel without being vicious and I really enjoyed her dry sense of humour. The pseudo-dominatrix clothes that she wears are funny and the show is fast paced and interesting. Shawna Lanne, USA All I can say is that it's about time. For months we've had to deal with Regis Philbin's annoying taglines and fashion wear, and Jeff Probst of Survivor. Sarcasm at its highest, most sophisticated level yet. Here's to another British invasion - are there more where she comes from?

Tom Nixon, USA I have been watching the show for the past three nights, and I really don't understand what all the controversy is about. We Americans are used to the idea of rudeness on TV. Have the people already forgotten about Judge Judy? She can be as vile and cruel as Anne. But I'd much rather see Judge Judy host Weakest Link over Anne by far.... at least we can understand her New York accent! Cam, USA She is hideous. The worst programme on American TV. I just wanted someone to know she is terrible, horrible and should never be put on TV. Ari McDonald, USA The UK version of the show was on the whole more balanced: Anne Robinson's remarks were made to contestants who were generally reasonably fair to each other - competitive and no doubt upset at having 'done the walk', but still fair. With the US version, many of the contestants come away with the view that they were vehemently unhappy with being voted off, saying how wrong and unjust it all was. This to me affects the balance; add the contestants' vitriolic statements to Anne's own and the whole show takes on a darker, far more unsettling hue. I'm not surprised it's a hit now. A long term success though?

Personally, I doubt it. It's a novelty for the Americans to have this kind of show but I fear that the sheer negativity of it will eventually wear the audience figures down. Rachel Heath, USA I'm also a Brit who lives in the USA and all I can say is, whatever we've done, I apologise. Take Anne Robinson back please! Rob, USA I watched one of the early US shows with interest, after all the hype that had surrounded it. Frankly, I found it rather boring! So much for saving American TV! The phrases, dismissals and put-downs get repetitive very quickly, and it did all seem very contrived. The ad breaks probably don't help because it is hard to maintain tension across them. I really wasn't impressed. The best part was the contestants being bitchy about each other after they got voted off. Debbie, USA (ex-UK) Anne gets boring after the second episode because she sounds like a bully. I did not enjoy the constant negative remarks. Nick, USA Oh, come on now. She's only a game show host and not a very polished one at that. A network can purchase the public's attention for a few weeks, but in the end it's just another game show.

Big deal. And haven't you Brits got something better to think about? Is it really that big of a deal to you that one of your own is on US television? Maybe someone needs to shoot Phil Mitchell again to give you something "important" to worry about. Jason Kelley, USA Take her back! Jay Hunter, USA I've seen both the US and the UK versions of the show, and, quite frankly, the US version loses a lot in translation. After each round we are treated to advertisements, which results in the loss of tension and drama built during the round. Anne has really become a caricature of herself and is not as quick-witted as she is in the BBC version. I can't see what all the fuss is about in the US media - it's only a gameshow! Tim Cooper, Englishman in USA I did not like the humour or the presentation. I do not think all Americans can follow her language and pronunciation. Hope the last time was the last time I watched her. Goodbye. Mahesh, USA One thing I have always admired about the British is their wit and the speed with which it is delivered.

If the people of the UK have any sense of urgency left in restoring their image of being the masters of sarcasm, they should box Anne up and sink her in the North Sea as soon as possible. Even we Americans agree she is just goddamn awful. Cory Hussain, USA I'm also a Brit who lives in the USA and all I can say is, whatever we've done, I apologise. Take Anne Robinson back please! Rob, USA I lived in the UK from 1996 to 1999 and enjoyed her looking out for the consumer on WatchDog but her cold, forced frown on The Weakest Link is absolutely pathetic. Malcolm Reeve, Canada As a Brit over here, I felt obliged to watch Weakest Link. Robinson's put- downs are what's weak. If this is how we need to get the attention of the audience, it's a sad day for British TV Graham Sedgwick, USA As bad as Anne Robinson is on our version of The Weakest Link - her put-downs are often too obviously scripted - she's far from being the worst part: the contestants!

If the players were at least smart, her remarks might be taken a little better; as it is now, she comes across as instigating a battle of wits with men and women nowhere close to being armed. Amanda Paulette, USA Unbearable voice! Sue, USA Awesome Anne! Reputation is a little overdone but Anne is a breath of fresh air. A fine antidote to the sickliness of most US TV game show presenters.... John Vance, Englishman in USA It's obviously all hype for publicity, and some contestants take it seriously. In the US version Anne tries too hard to be nasty and it comes over as being too contrived and scripted. Perhaps this is a consequence of having a one hour show that has to be padded to make up the time. Victor Lee-Own, USA At last, a programme that can hold our attention to the screen. Great entertainment, but I wonder how long the BBC can keep up the pretense that Anne is acting and thrive on the indignant response of the American audience? Dominic Tilling, Canada Ms Robinson is totally unrecognisable, facially and personality-wise since her Points of View presenting days days.

She appeared likeable and normal back then, but now she is truly banal and both she and The Weakest Link are the weakest links of all. After watching her for five minutes, I couldn't wait to say 'goodbye.' Rita Baron, USA Why are we trying to replace rubbish US game shows with rubbish Brit ones? Glen, USA I saw the first two American episodes and I have seen the show in the UK. I thought she was absolutely pathetic in the States. I detest her condescending, antagonistic approach. I lived in the UK from 1996 to 1999 and enjoyed her looking out for the consumer on WatchDog but her cold, forced frown on The Weakest Link is absolutely pathetic. What makes her so special? Get a life Anne. Goodbye. Malcolm Reeve, Canada The show in the States is not as fast due to the commercial breaks and is quite brutal. The jury is still out as far as I can tell on whether it will become a mega-hit over here David Dutton, USA I watched the show the other night. The only thing that left an impression on me was that the media seems to be promoting rudeness, greed and self-serving behaviour.

What a turn-off! Ted, USA I watched ten minutes of the premiere in the States and was less than impressed. It was very contrived and badly acted. This is typical of when the US takes a perfectly acceptable UK programme and tries to "Americanise" it. I have yet to see a success. David N. VanMeter, USA It is a refreshing change to see hosts making fun of contestants who have very little knowledge; the 'feel good' American way is so irritating. I was quite surprised how relatively few questions the contestants on the US show could answer! However, the way Robinson says "The Weakest Link" and "Goodbye" exactly the same every time does get a bit old! Michelle Drude, USA With a US population of about 300 million people and around 100 TV channels, only 5% of the population tuned in. With the average viewer attention span of about 30 seconds (before the incessant ads kick in), Ms Robinson has made very little impact with her rather limited approach to entertainment. We're just waiting for the Carol Vordermann 'make-over' and all will be complete. Mike, UK expat in USA What a condescending nasty piece of business Anne Robinson is.

No question, she is a turn off (literally). It's like watching the re-birth of Thatcher. No thanks.. not for me or any other cringing ex-pats. Bryn Gleaver, Canada Like the game. Can't understand Anne, hate her voice, demeanour, her clothing. She spoils the programme for us. Moira Nichol, Canada I think she's great and I love the show! The New York Post knocks everything and everyone with the exception of George Bush, shows how smart they are! Clara Roach, USA I was in the UK last October for a three week vacation, and got hooked on The Weakest Link. It was fast, fun and Anne was very tough. The show in the States is not as fast due to the commercial breaks and is quite brutal. The jury is still out as far as I can tell on whether it will become a mega-hit over here. David Dutton, USA I think Anne Robinson has done what she is paid to do - create a stir. And she's succeeded.

Whether you like her or not, you've got to hand it to her John Peg, Australia One of the many bonuses of emigrating eight months ago, was to escape Anne and her takeover of British TV. Is anywhere safe?! Sian Balding, USA A new concept for American TV! Don't know if it's just for show or she truly has this personality, but it's so different for the USA (we have very prudish and regulated programmes) that it will have a great following. Do You Want to be a Millionaire is cute; this show is more exciting because of the attitude displayed and it's something America isn't used to viewing. Carol Churchill, USA After living in England for six years and having the opportunity to see and read about Ann Robinson many times, I am sad to see her portrayed in this programme as a pretty mean and nasty hostess. She was never this "bad". The make up person at NBC has had a field day with her and her makeup is rather severe and she never smiles. I don't remember her that way! She was always a direct, no punches kind of person, but not downright nasty all the time. I enjoyed watching her between 1994 and 1999.

We only left last June. Has she changed that much or is this just a character for the show? Whatever the case, I don't think Americans tuning in to the show are getting the true picture of her. She really isn't that bad! Maria, USA I am British living in the USA and have seen Anne in action both in the UK and the USA. I don't think it is suited to American contestants or audiences as there are more than a few contestants who can't understand her English! Linda Boughton, USA I watched about fifteen minutes of the first episode and found the show very disturbing. I felt very uncomfortable by the confrontational nature of the programme. I am surprised if it is true that the show's ratings are so great. Could be just network publicity hype. Then again a country that loves Jerry Springer may well also love Anne Robinson. Olivia Casasnovas, USA The questions are good, but not all equal at the same level. I would rather watch re-runs of JAWS. After watching one show and part of another, I've seen enough. The 'Good-byes' get overused. The repetitiveness of 'You are the weakest link' will soon bore the majority of the viewing audience.

The early ratings probably just derive from curiosity. Mike Larson, USA I don't have a problem with Ms. Robinson treating idiots as such, but please speak the language: there's a T in "weakesT link." Dan, USA I think Anne Robinson has done what she is paid to do - create a stir. And she's succeeded. Whether you like her or not, you've got to hand it to her. I enjoy seeing her bully the Americans and take them down a peg or two. John Peg, Australia Can't honestly see what the fuss is about. She behaves no differently to anyone working in some of London's shops Mike Weston, UK Come on people. I saw Anne Robinson for the first time when I was back in the UK last month. I loved The Weakest Link. Ms Robinson's tongue is obviously so firmly in her cheek that I'm amazed people can be so wound up by her. I get the impression of a clever woman with a wicked sense of humour who'd be a lot of fun as a personal friend. And to see her going to a country so overly concerned with self-esteem issues at the expense of true valuation is the funniest thing of all. Keep at it Anne. You're terrific.

Gary Pollard, Hong Kong Weakest Link is great fun, get it? Fun. The Weakest Link is fantastic, I introduced it to a friend that was staying in the UK with me, and they have never looked back. When they returned to the States, they informed all their friends about it, maybe they were the lucky ones as they had someone to explain that Anne Robinson's performance was a act, and that if other Americans did not get this, they should get a life. Jeremy Granville, UK I can't believe I'm reading this! We had something one hundred times scarier running the country for over a decade and now the US has been brought to a stand-still by a sweet middle-aged lady who used to present Points of View?! Chris Merriman, UK I think it's utterly dreadful and a sorry reflection on modern society. What an example to put out - let's be unpleasant to everyone and stab each other in the back! Matthew Wood, UK I know Chris Tarrant would have loved to say a few choice words to that arrogant little man that screwed up the �16,000 cheque up and threw it on the floor the other day. At least Anne gets to come out with it.

Good luck to her in the USA, but keep it up here too! Stephen, UK I've been following news of the show's move to the US with great interest. The first time I saw the show I found Anne's voice irritating because she almost shouts everything (something she complained about on Room 101!) and she puts a "t" on the end of the word thousand. The show has grown on me. I like to see how the contestants react and listen to their comments when they're dismissed. Anne's perfect for the role of host and I hope the Americans can overcome her accent and "get" the show. Bear in mind that some US viewers disliked Lenny Henry's "Chef" because of the nasty way he talked to his staff! Andy, UK Can't honestly see what the fuss is about. She behaves no differently to anyone working in some of London's shops. Mike Weston, UK I do hope this is a permanent move. Any room for Tarrant and Whiteley over there too? Neil Stott, UK I'm too scared to say anything in case she is reading this. Terry, UK How on earth is her career not over?

She is a rude, ignorant, racist woman, I cannot even bear watching her on the TV anymore. Phoebe, UK Nowadays, there are enough people around who speak to others in an ignorant manner. To do it on telly will only increase the number. Gordon Mills, UK I love her, she has quite a cult/camp following in the Netherlands. I am sure it is all fake but who cares, it's still very funny. Too bad she is now on US television because it will eventually lead to an Americanisation of the show, but nevertheless long live la Robinson! Jose Fernandez, Netherlands From reading comments by Ms Robinson herself, it seems she regards her performance on the Weakest Link as a demonstration of a "strong woman". Presumably this is her definition of an ignorant and offensive person who happens to be female. It is a mistake to believe that this is all a comic strip image, because she clearly uses her position as the show's host to voice her prejudices. Your description of her as "matriarch" is accurate if it is considered to be morally equivalent to "patriarch". Paul McAdam, UK TV for morons.

I have watched the programme once and found it cringingly embarrassing - typical of the new breed of programmes often inspired by the victim-TV culture of the US. The BBC seems to move ever-closer to its commercial rivals with such recent gems as Darts Wives and Car Wars; both low-budget, low-imagination programmes which make me begrudge the licence fee. Mindless. Paul Kersy, UK She was refreshing to start with but once you've seen one or two shows there's nothing more to see; it's just the same lines regurgitated over and over like any other cheap television. Where is the original thought and entertainment? Jez, England It's entertainment and is harmless fun. She's not meant to be taken seriously - just as a lot of TV comedy is meant to be taken with a pinch of salt! J Rau, England So, the Anne Robinson is going to America. I hope she is a big success. I hope she doesn't come back. And I hope no UK TV companies are stupid enough to import any of her programmes back here. A serious lack of talent with a smug grin which will be gladly missed. Ian Murray, UK I do hope this is a permanent move.

Any room for Tarrant and Whiteley over there too? Neil Stott, UK Anne Robinson does not live up to her reputation. Her jibes and insults give every impression of having been scripted. They are not particularly original, memorable, or evidently the product of a quick wit. Americans are used to the reparte of a Dorothy Parker and instead we sent them a tired old-fashioned English nag! David T, UK As someone who has lived in both countries, I must say that I would be very surprised if the show has success in the US. English people may be masochists, but her behaviour won't last long in the US. By the way, rocketing to the top of the ratings with 15 million viewers? Not a big deal in a country of 280 million surely. But then again, the show, while not unsuccessful, is not one of the UK's greatest ratings hits either! Nick Grealy, UK Anne Robinson's affected speech is the worst turn-off. Why does she keep pronouncing t on the end of the word "thousand". It must be her Scouse accent! Also, her own poor general knowledge is apparent as she often doesn't understand the questions she's asking.

The answer is to put her in the hot seat and watch her squirm. Rob Egan, UK I think Anne is hilarious. People shouldn't take her so seriously. If she wasn't like she is on the show, why would people watch and what would make it different from any other quiz show? I know she can be harsh, but contestants know what they're in for when they go on the quiz. Emily Fellows, England She is the worst presenter on TV, I hated her on Watchdog and I hate her even more on The Weakest Link, I can only say that I am glad I am out of the country now so that I don't have to see her face anymore! Steve Blair, Switzerland Anne Robinson is only stating the truth about people, but if people are taking a gameshow seriously, then they really shouldn't participate or watch it. It's only a game after all. Andrew Bullock, UK Let's face it. The only reason anyone watches this otherwise banal show is to see the extent to which the wannabes are prepared to be humiliated for their fifteen minutes of fame. Ms Robinson does what she does very well. If she wasn't rude it wouldn't be worth watching.

Andy Dawson, UK She is annoying and the contestants should be able to say what they think of her (as I'm sure they are told to keep their mouths shut). Perhaps she should take part in one of the shows as we can see how much of a weak link she is. This is getting me more worked up just thinking about it. Robinson, you are the weakest link, goodbye. Chris Parr, England I find her programmes far from entertaining. It is beyond my comprehension that the contestants submit themselves to Anne Robinson's rudeness for the sake of others' entertainment. In the programme Watchdog, she has invited guests to explain their company's actions and has been too ignorant to allow them to answer her questions. Joyce Wink, Scotland I used to watch daily until her appearance on Room 101.... but no more! Richard Edwards, Wales Anne Robinson hams it up dreadfully in one of the most pointless shows in televison... and the licence payer has to fund it. At least Millionaire is paid for by the call revenue to the show. Simon Lord, UK The Weakest Link is all hype for sure. I never watch the programme as I can`t stand Anne Robinson.

Has anyone noticed how all that is talked about in this programme is how arrogant the presenter is? The game itself has poor prize money compared to other quiz shows. Anne Robinson has the personality of a brick and the programme is as entertaining as a public hanging. In this competitive age of television surely the BBC can supply better programming than this? I begrudge some of my TV licence paying Robinson's wages. Martin Nicholls, England The show is fantastic and Anne is a woman of substance. Her direct approach and quick wit is what makes the show so entertaining. At least she is not as patronising as Chris Tarrant. Olinka, UK I simply don't understand all this hysteria about the show and its presenter. You have an off switch, use it (or turn over and watch Wheel of Fortune). Good luck to Anne and the production company who are collectively making a great deal of money by fooling you into thinking that it's a worthy subject. Chris Moran, United Arab Emirates It seems to me that female presenters on television are always portrayed as squeaky clean, kind and caring little bunny rabbits and I find it a refreshing change to see a woman who is not afraid to be a little bit more realistic.

Yes she can be cruel, but so can we all. At least she has a personality and opinion of her own. JLE, France I think she is very rude to people, the way she presents the programme could be a bit nicer than this. Being friendly to people is not a bad thing. The idea behind the programme itself is very good, but the way it is presented is very irritating and disgusting. I mean no offence to Ms Anne Robinson, if she would only just be nicer! Mark Anderson, UK With their economy about to stall, their relations with both Russia and China at their worst since the cold war and record levels of personal debt, I would have thought Ms Robinson was the last thing the US needed to batter its collective self-esteem. Rob Churchill, UK Anne Robinson's comments may be cutting to say the least, but they never fail to amuse me. I'd far rather listen to Anne Robinson's fiery attacks than Richard Whiteley's inane giggling on Countdown. And another thing: Watchdog just isn't the same without her. Gary McCartney, UK She is arrogant for her own good, as demonstrated with her racist comments against the Welsh. Get rid of her. We change channels when she comes on as a quiet little protest.

Alan Leeb-du Toit, England Anne's approach and manner lack any variety at all and so become transparently unconvincing and meaningless. By being harsh all the time (even on the rare occasions when the contestants don't deserve a hard time) her harshness ends up having no impact. ...In extremis, 'quaking with fear' is often rapidly replced by 'quaking with giggles'... By introducing different degrees into her 'act', the impact of her caustic one-liners would be magnified considerably... Don't be monotonous, Anne! Excellent! More TV showing us how to be rude and uncaring to others. T.Gill, UK It is a sad reflection on the state of entertainment and the values of a country when people are asked to work as a team only to turn on the 'weakest'. It is inconsistent with civilisation and a caring society. Malcolm Nicholson, UK Since I've been watching the programme, it's always been full of insults aimed at all the contestants. Anne lives up to her reputation. If Anne could imagine herself to be one of the contestants, how would she feel if she was abused like that?

I strongly believe that Anne Robinson would not be able to get to the second round of the programme if she was a contestant. Anne, I don't think you are the best presenter for the Weakest Link. You are also a weak link yourself. Funmi Olagunju, Britain The Weakest Link is the best quiz show to have ever been shown on TV. Why is the show so popular? People only tune in, not to watch the questions or test their knowledge but to see how far Anne goes in her insults and banter with the contestants. If the contestants were so scared of Anne, then they wouldn't be applying in droves to appear on the show. At the end of the day it is a new form of entertainment which people love. There is always the off switch and it's obvious that people aren't using it. Long may Anne have success in both the UK and the USA! Darren Parmenter, Spain Anne Robinson isn't scary, but she is fantastic! She gets to be absolutely vicious to people on national TV, and it's great fun to watch. Like all things, it gets tired, but if you don't watch the show very often, it's amusing.

Seldo Voss, UK Just like to say, Anne, the Dutch football team Ajax, is not pronounced like the cleaning fluid. You are the weakest link, goodbye............. Craig, UK Why do people take this so seriously? It's a gameshow to smile at. Glenda Meeson, UK I really can't see how Anne Robinson as hood-winked a whole nation into thinking she is some kind of tyrant. Her perfomance can be best described as contrived and the role would have been better suited to Jeremy Paxman. Dave Gilmore, UK I think The Weakest Link should move to the Broadway or West End stage, fill the theatre, and then the contestants would be even more nervous of a performance day and night. C.Parry, Wales Of course it is hype! The show has created a persona based loosely on Anne Robinson's usual purse-lipped style and magnified into an egregious caricature. I suspect Robinson wasn't the sweetest plum in the pudding to start with, but her gameshow act is just a calculated attempt to give her the charisma that she lacks naturally. She isn't nearly clever enough to be that dismissive of others' intellects without having a hammed-up character to hide behind.

James, UK It's good to see a quizshow format that is more elaborate than the usual Q&A approach often employed. However, it's fairly clear that the questions are rather facile compared to old school classics such as Mastermind. I wonder if this panders to the ego of the viewer - during an episode of Mastermind one would feel smug about knowing the answers to a handful of questions. With The Weakest Link, one can expect to know the majority of answers. Paul M, UK Although she is very quick and has good skills, I think she is getting repetitive, she always makes the same comments. I don't find these kind of nasty, unpleasant comments funny at all. I really don't think this sort of humour says much about British humour...I understand that Americans like it, though... Marta Amigo, UK She does live up to her reputation and makes a refreshing change from the usual sugary presenters. For all the complainers - just don't watch the programme. Deb, UK Although no fan of quiz shows populated with sycophantic hosts, Anne Robinson does break the mould in a refreshing manner. Is it just me though or is she the most obnoxious person in the world?

James, UK I watched the show for about five minutes and found Anne Robinson's attempts at being clever, funny and rude to be pretty pathetic and rather embarrassing. The whole thing is a typical lazy 'gimmick' quiz show where the quiz element is incidental to the 'personality' (sic) of the celebrity presenter. The Americans love it do they? That just about says it all! Iain Scott, UK I think anyone who has said that Anne Robinson leaves them quaking has lost all sense of reality. It's a quiz show and she's a quiz show hostess! They choose to go and compete and they know what to expect. I think that Anne could improve her performance a lot. In my opinion, she doesn't always pronounce the words in the questions correctly. If the hype is to be believed she's making a lot of money from it and good luck to her. I believe that the viewers have fallen for the hype. Morag Frank, UK I think Anne Robinson is a pain but she is playing cleverly to the audience and for the most part they seem to be loving it. I mean, all of that rotten comment about the Welsh and her 'hitting' back at the critics in the States.

This lady is certainly not for turning: she is too busy rolling her money to the bank! John Lashley, UK In truth, I've not watched this - but caught it whilst channel- hopping. From what I've seen of her, she is curt and I find her manner abusive and would not waste my time continuing to watch. If this is the best we can export, no wonder we are going downhill fast. Jennifer Brookes, UK All it shows are the levels people will stoop to for money. Especially Anne Robinson. Tim Hale, England Anne Robinson is one of the least talented TV presenters I've seen yet. She was hopeless on Watchdog and is utterly unconvincing on The Weakest Link. Her marketers, however, are terrific! It's amazing that so many have been duped into thinking that this woman is so scary ... she appears to me to be a bigoted, unintelligent, untalented has-been. Miles, United Kingdom (From a long-expatriated Brit in Denmark who has never seen the show). Is this the same Anne Robinson who used to present Points of View on the Beeb years ago?

If so, the whimsical, elfin-like creature I remember must have gone through a terrifying metamorphosis. If the reports are true, I think I prefer to remember her as she was. Nigel Mander, Denmark Anne Robinson is probably the best TV baddie in recent years. Certainly anyone who steps onto the show is in for a rough ride. I don't know if the American public is ready for a show like this or if they have the right sort of humour to understand it. Having recently been subjected to a number of American game shows whilst staying on business in various hotels I am not sure whether the American viewing public will embrace the show. Anne Robinson will certainly be infamous in the States. Andy Millington, Germany A sad woman - a sad programme - aimed at sad people. Why must everything these days be geared to cheapness, vulgarity, rudeness and offensiveness? But I guess we get the television (like the politicians) our collective intellect deserves. This is just the sort of programme which would gain favour in America, where bad taste knows no bounds...

Richard Holman, UK Thank God the Americans like her and the show, with any luck she can stay there and we won't have to see her on our screens again...I'll never forgive her for all that Watchdog rubbish. Paul, UK Anne does a great job! I can't believe some of the self righteous political correct twaddle already posted. Every contestant on the show knows what they are in for when they apply to go on. No one is ambushed! Its just fun. Rick, UK I don't think the format will stand the test of time. It has too little variation in pace or tone. I still find it hard to believe that anyone will put themselves through all that grief for just �7000 or so. The BBC should add an extra '0' on the end of that. David Worsfold, England Am I the only person to think that this is all a bit of cruel joke? I can't believe people find enjoyment out of watching someone be horrible to someone else for the sake of entertainment? I've only watched a couple of shows but on each one, Anne Robinson has driven me mad by trying so hard to be nasty she ended up coming across as a spoilt shool child.

Jo, UK I think The Weakest Link, as with all shows, started off very well on BBC Two but as soon as it gets popular it will become a victim of its own success. Who is Anne Robinson trying to kid, she isn't rude or scary, it's a pantomine. My headteacher at school was much more menacing! Jack Smith, UK I know of the programme and its format. I don't watch it, I feel sad for those who are entertained by it and by other people's misfortune. But the candid camera type shows have gone down that road, finding entertainment in misfortune. I'm sure the same viewers will be tuning in to the McVeigh execution to be entertained. What a world! Simon Mallett, UK I hate this show, I can't stand the presenter, her character's not suitable for this programme, not like Chris in Millionaire. After I watch this programme, I feel annoyed, not happy. Kay, UK Good for her, I think she is taking the mick and enjoying it - let's commend UK success in the US, not put it down. Goodbye!

Peter Clayton, UK Impressive with her cold insults and jabs at contestants weaknesses, but it is only an act and scripted between contestants leaving.... Surely?! David Stone, UK I hope the fashion for nasty gameshows disappears soon. The Weakest Link has a gimmick, just like every other gameshow, but it is an unpleasant one. The hurt and embarrassment to the contestants must linger long after the episode has been broadcast and forgotten. Is it really so important to get viewers? Stephanie, England I think that she's very entertaining and that people who take her too seriously need to get a life and get out more! (Says me who's actually taking the time to write this!) Michelle Howard, England Yep, it is all hype. On the few occasions I have watched this program, her plodding delivery of feeble put-downs fails to lift it beyond the excruciatingly dull. What really grates is that the sneering remarks come from someone who obviously couldn't answer the questions herself (at least Jeremy Paxman and Bamber Gascoigne gave the impression that they might actually know the answers to some of the questions they asked). You may as well get Jim Davidson to takeover - and he's probably cheaper.

Mike Cronshaw, UK The trouble is, she's so ignorant herself. Someone who cannot pronounce the composer Haydn correctly (to name but one of her many solecisms - and goodness knows how she would pronounce that word!) has no business hectoring others for their shortcomings. Truly dreadful. Replace her with a presenter who is both domineering and erudite, such as Jeremy Paxman (though I doubt whether he would lower himself to it). Edward, UK Over-hyped, overpaid and, thankfully, over there! Tim Pilcher, UK The fact that a moronic proportion find the notion of her making snide remarks and catty put-downs to ordinary members of the public attractive, says much more about the British people than about Anne Robinson. Charles Thompson, UK Anne Robinson quits the Weakest Link, Goodbye! | Daily Mail Online Quitting: Anne Robinson is to leave the Weakest Link Anne Robinson is to quit as presenter of the Weakest Link and she will not be replaced. Next spring, after 12 years and 1,693 shows, she will film the BBC quiz for the last time. The BBC is not replacing the ‘Queen of Mean’ when her contract expires so the programme will end.

Miss Robinson, 66, said she is planning to focus on other projects including a second book, which she is basing on her diaries. ‘It’s been superb, so it’s a hard decision,’ she said. ‘If there’s anything about longevity in television, it’s about knowing what to take and what to turn down, and what to stop. It’s often about what not to do any more.’ Despite reports that her salary had been halved, the presenter insists the break was her decision. Having stayed on because of the show’s move to Glasgow, she wanted to give it a proper shot. But working on it had become a ‘military operation’. In an interview with The Guardian, Miss Robinson said: ‘Trying to write in the morning and start recording at 2.30 simply wasn’t working. My fee wasn’t cut. ‘I said I’d do ten years and then, because we went to Scotland and they were brilliant, I did a year more than I intended to do.’ In February, it was reported that she had agreed to take a 50 per cent pay cut to stay at the BBC.

The deal allegedly reduced her salary from an estimated £4million over 24 months to £2million, and increased her workload. Miss Robinson will continue to host Watchdog, and another series of My Life in Books for the BBC. Host: Anne Robinson will continue to present Watchdog with Anita Rani and Matt Allwright The Weakest Link originally aired on BBC2 in 2000 before moving to BBC1. By the time she leaves she will have dealt with 15,000 contestants and asked 230,000 questions. Miss Robinson, famed for her catchphrase is ‘You are the Weakest Link, goodbye’ and for finishing the show with a wink, had been prepared for the BBC to choose another presenter. ‘If you sell the house, the garden isn’t yours any more,’ she said. ‘I was prepared if they had put someone else in.’ Though it would be a wrench, she did not expect it to leave a big hole in her busy life. ‘I’ve always been good at change,’ she said. ‘I mean my life has always been about change, up and down. ‘I did 11 years as a columnist at the Mirror.

I did 11 years of Points of View [another BBC show]. I am not saying it will be easy, but easier than for a lot of people.’ The move is estimated to cost the taxpayer more than 1.5 billion pounds. The BBC's controller of daytime said Miss Robinson was 'impossible to replace. He added: 'After 11 years fronting the Weakest Link, Anne Robinson has today announced that she has decided to relinquish her title as the ‘Queen of Mean’ and step down as its presenter.' 'In terms of what will replace the Weakest Link, well that’s all still up for debate at the moment. However, we’ve been really pleased with how some of our new quizzes on BBC Two have been doing such as Pointless with Alexander Armstrong. 'We’re planning some special episodes to see the series out which will be filmed in Glasgow in December 2011 and the show will continue to be on air until Spring 2012.' Her decision to quit will also give her an opportunity to spend more time with her grandsons and daughter Emma. Miss Robinson has been married and divorced twice.

Weakest Link axed after Anne Robinson quits as host - Mirror Online Celebs Weakest Link axed after Anne Robinson quits as host Presenter and journalist Anne Robinson is to step down from her role as host of the Weakest Link, it was announced today. Share Get celebs updates directly to your inbox + Subscribe Thank you for subscribing! Could not subscribe, try again laterInvalid Email Presenter and journalist Anne Robinson is to step down from her role as host of the Weakest Link, it was announced today. Robinson was dubbed the "Queen of Mean", in reference to her withering asides while sparring with contestants on the long-running BBC general knowledge quiz show. The broadcaster said it would not be recommissioning the programme after her departure and had yet to decide what would be aired in its place. Commenting on her decision to leave after 11 years, she told the Guardian: "It's been superb. So it is a hard decision. If there's anything about longevity in television, it's about knowing what to take and what to turn down, and what to stop." She added: "My fee wasn't cut. I originally said I would do (the programme for) 10 years.

I did a year more than I intended to." Special episodes of the show will be filmed in Glasgow in December and the final series will go off air next Spring. As a strict quiz mistress, Robinson was renowned for making remarks which caused controversy, not least in Wales. After voting in each round, outgoing contestants left the set to the sound of her curt catchphrase: "You are the Weakest Link, goodbye." In his blog, Liam Keelan, controller of daytime, said she would be "impossible to replace". He said: "The Weakest Link has been a hugely important and much-loved part of the BBC's schedules for well over a decade, but without Anne's iconic persona and acerbic wit (some of which I've been on the receiving end as a commissioner), we have decided that we won't be recommissioning any new episodes following her departure." By the end of its final run, the show will have clocked up 1,693 episodes, with more than 15,000 contestants appearing, being asked around 235,000 questions. The BBC said fans of Robinson could see her on Watchdog and it had recommissioned My Life in Books for a second series.

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Question: Who is the presenter of the Weakest Link?
Answer: Anne Robinson