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Rachel Riley raises eyebrows with latest tweet after Anne Robinson's Countdown exit

Colin Murray has stepped in as temporary host

rachel riley
Sharnaz Shahid
Deputy Online Editor
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Countdown presenter Rachel Riley has raised eyebrows after appearing to make a sly dig at Anne Robinson on Twitter. Last week, it was announced that Colin Murray would be stepping in as Anne's temporary replacement as host.

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The veteran presenter surprised fans when she announced she was quitting the Channel 4 series after just one year at the helm. Rachel replied to a fan who praised Colin for taking over the show until November.

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"Wow hope he stays forever. He has great charisma and is such a lovely bloke. Well done Colin can't wait," the message read. "Come on @C4Countdown keep him permanently."

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In agreement, Rachel replied: "Such a lovely reaction to Colin being back, a pretty universal sentiment!"

Her followers were also quick to respond, with one writing: "When he stood in for Nick Hewer, I thought he was great. He made the programmes really enjoyable for me. I hope he gets the job permanently- if he wants it!"

Another said: "Hear hear! I thought he created such a cheerful and fun atmosphere last time he was there, and he did a great job as host. I can’t speak highly enough of him."

rachel riley countdown© Photo: Instagram

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Former host Nick Hewer also voiced his thoughts, tweeting: "Colin, I'm truly delighted for you - a true fan of the show and a great presenter. I sense that this time, it's permanent and you'll be in that seat for years to come. Congratulations."

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Last week, Anne - who was the sixth host of the Channel 4 quiz show – confirmed her departure, telling Daily Mail: "I've had a blast hosting this wonderful show. And I stayed longer than I signed up for.

"Now it is time for an older woman to take the reins. I hope too I've encouraged TV bosses to realise that not all women at the wrong end of their seventies are in care homes playing bingo and watching conjuring tricks."

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