Celebrity Juice to end after 14 years with two TV specials, Leigh Francis confirms

Leigh Evans has confirmed that Celebrity Juice is set to come to an end after 14 years, and will bow out with two TV specials.

The comedian, 49, has hosted the ITV2 panel show for its entire run as his outrageous alter-ego Keith Lemon and described the experience as “the longest most fun party!”

Taking to social media, he wrote: “After 14 years, 26 series, 300 eps @CelebJuice is concluding later this year with two farewell specials.

“Thank you so so much to everyone who watched, to the team captains, guests, crew and itv2. It was the longest most fun party! I had a wonderful time. Big love x (sic)”.

He also shared a compilation video of some of his favourite moments from the show set to the classical song Time to Say Goodbye.

The show first aired in 2008 with Fearne Cotton and Holly Willoughby appearing as team captains, with Cotton quitting her role after 10years in 2018.

She was replaced by Paddy McGuinness and, latterly, Mel B.

In 2020, Willoughby decided to step down after 12 years. The current captains are The Inbetweeners’ star Emily Atack and Love Island host Laura Whitmore.

Cotton led the celebrity well-wishes over on Instagram, writing: “I feel soooooooo lucky I got to work with you on this brilliant show. You are a bloody genius and I learned so much working alongside you.

“Not only were you always on point when we were filming juice but you were forever positive behind the scenes too. It’s good to know we made so many people laugh over the years. Thank you celebrity juice and the whole brilliant team behind it,” followed by a red heart emoji.

Whitmore wrote: “Telly History!!!! The most amazing show to be part of you. Love you,” signing off with a red heart emoji.

“I shall miss it terribly. It’s like being invited to loveliest, naughtiest New Year’s Eve party, peopled with the loveliest, naughtiest guests. And hosted by the kindest mischief I know. X,” said Celebs Go Dating’s Tom Read Wilson.

“Congrats on the most amazing run … huge achievement these days !!! It was so so brilliant,” said Davina McCall.