Mock The Week: Team captain Andy Parsons leaving after eight years | London Evening Standard

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Mock The Week: Team captain Andy Parsons leaving after eight yearsThe comedian has called for a woman to take over from him in a regular roleLeaving: Andy Parsons is stepping down from Mock The Week after 135 episodesRex

Comedian Andy Parsons is leaving his team captain role on BBC satirical panel show Mock The Week.

After appearing in 135 episodes, and being a captain for eight years, Parsons has decided to step down and focus on a podcast and live show titles Slacktivist Action Group.

“I'd like to thank all of the people I've worked with over the years on Mock and from the BBC,” Parsons said. “However, when 'Unlikely Things to Hear in a Superhero Movie' comes around for the fourth time it is probably time to move on.

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"I, myself, am looking forward to chairing the new monthly show and podcast Slacktivist Action Group and delving a little deeper into the bigger issues affecting the UK.

"With what seems like an exciting time for politics in this country, this is something I'd like to focus more of my time upon, with a chance to host a show and set my own agenda.”

Parson has called for a female comedian to perhaps take over the role. Sandi Toksvig was recently announced to take over Stephen Fry as the host of QI, making her the first female TV panel show host in the UK.

“Perhaps this will be an opportunity to make a female comedian a regular,” Parsons said.

He also defended the BBC against “more damaging cuts”, warning British residents to “love it or lose it”.