Launched on 16th October 2020 as a multi-media extravangaza, Americast's lasting success for the BBC was as a podcast. Versions were broadcast on Radio 4, BBC World News and the BBC News Channel, but the podcast went straight into BBC Sounds' top five as the US election progressed - and has maintained a strong following ever since.
Maitlis and Sopes, as they call themselves on the series, were chums before, and there'll be a suspicion at Broadcasting House that havering at the top over future roles for the two led to an opportunist bid from radio giant Global, who presumably won't be allowed to call their version of the show by the same name. A plaintive email to staff from Interim Director of News Jonathan Munro (signed just 'J') ends: "Please join me in thanking both Emily and Jon for their many years of sterling service to the BBC and wishing them all the best for the future."
We don't know where the pair will land in the LBC schedule, but they'll be working with another former BBC colleague on podcasts. As part of the deal, Dino Sofos, the founder of audio production company Persephonica, also joins Global as the podcast's executive producer. Sofos is the former head of BBC News Podcasts and created Brexitcast, Newscast and Americast formats.
Emily and Jon spent some time as co-presenters on the BBC News channel. Here's a pic from 2011.
The gang is back, with vital input from @maitlis super fast hound, Moody; and more thoughtful but sedate Alfie. Special #G7 #Americast this week with senior member of @POTUS administration. What do you want to ask? Send us your questions to americast@bbc.co.uk pic.twitter.com/lQs6YhX16o
— Jon Sopel (@jonsopel) June 6, 2021
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