Michael Aspel turns down 'Countdown' role

According to a report on Digital Spy, Michael Aspel has revealed that he has turned down the opportunity to host Countdown.

The TV presenter claims he did not feel right taking over the prestigious role, citing Richard Whiteley's character as the reason.

He said: "I was just offered the job but said no. It was nice to be asked but the success of the show was Richard Whiteley with his loud ties and bad jokes, and it didn't need a laid-back presenter like me."

Aspel also voiced his opinion on the possibility of Stephen Fry taking the role, commenting: "I don't think Stephen Fry should do it - he's beyond that." He suggested Martin Jarvis and Gyles Brandreth as two plausible competitors.

Source - http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/article/ds38262.html.