Romesh Ranganathan reveals plans to step back from career in shock move - but insists he is not retiring
Romesh Ranganathan has revealed he's hitting pause on his hectic showbiz schedule - but insists he's not quitting for good.
The funnyman, 47, best known for his hit BAFTA-winning series Rob & Romesh Vs, says he's taking a breather to spend more time at home.
Speaking on Desert Island Discs on BBC Radio 4, Romesh told host Lauren Laverne: 'There's no game plan. I'm just doing whatever feels good - I'm taking a step back.'
But fans don't need to panic, as the Crawley-born comic made it clear he's not packing it in for good.
Romesh also opened up about life before comedy, reflecting on his old job as a maths teacher and how tough it really was.
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'There's not been a single day of my comedy career that's even come close to the stress I felt as a teacher,' he said.
'I cannot speak highly enough of teachers and teaching and how I loved that job.'
Romesh met his wife Leesa in 2009 when they were both working at a secondary school in Crawley.
The pair tied the knot and went on to welcome three children, Theo, Alex, and Charlie – with the comedian having tattoo of his sons' names.
Romesh shot to fame with his deadpan style and has become a household name thanks to stand-up, panel shows, and hit series with pal Rob Beckett.
Alongside his hugely successful comedy career and Radio 2 programme, he also co-owns Coughlans Bakery in Oxted, Surrey.
And just last month, he delighted fans with his hands-on approach to running the business as he served customers coffees and pastries from behind the counter on Wednesday.
The down-to-earth star didn't shy away from pausing his duties to pose for selfies and chat to fans, as well as record video messages for those who missed out.
In May delighted fans with his hands-on approach to running the business as he served customers coffees and pastries from behind the counter
He was fully kitted out in the bakery's branded cap and hoodie, with videos and photographs from his shift showing him collecting orders and processing payments.
His fans were quick to take to social media to heap praise on the comedian for taking the time to speak to all his fans during his surprise shift behind the counter.
It is not the first time he has done a stint working in the bakery chain, as he has also thrilled fans with shifts in its branches in Dorking and his hometown Crawley.
In February, he told the BBC of his visits: 'It was nice to meet people. I just wanted to get involved. The crowds are better than my tour show.'
Romesh, who is a vegan, had initially partnered with the bakery to create a vegan treat, called the Ranga Yum Yum, before going on to become a co-owner.
The delicious snack was made a permanent fixture on the menu and Romesh was partly responsible for owner Sean Coughlan setting up a branch in his hometown.
Sean previously said of Romesh's involvement: 'Romesh is working behind the counter because he wants to know more about the business. He loves it.'
'He is so down to earth, humble and genuinely one of the nicest guys I ever met,' he added.
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