TORONTO - A day after the dismissal of founding host Jian Ghomeshi, "Q" guest host Brent Bambury told CBC-Radio listeners Monday that the show would indeed go on.
The CBC announced its decision to cut ties to the popular broadcaster Sunday because of "information" it received about him.
Ghomeshi then followed with a statement alleging that he was fired because of his "sexual behaviour," and a Toronto law firm representing the 47-year-old announced its intent to launch a lawsuit against the CBC on his behalf.
Bambury, a longtime CBC personality, opened Monday's show acknowledging that it was a "very hard day" for fans of the daily chat program.
However, he also reminded listeners that "Q" was a collaborative effort and that it would continue without Ghomeshi — who was never named in the spot.
"I love 'Q' for the same reasons you do, but remember there are dozens of people who work hard to bring you 'Q,'" he said in a roughly 100-second introduction.
"They individually and collectively share in the success of this show. They're a big part of 'Q''s intellect and heart. They're still here. They're still committed. And they're determined to bring you the best show they can.
"Today, we're doing what we do as producers, as broadcasters, and as people: we move forward," he added later. "I hope you'll come with us."
Meanwhile, CBC worked to scrub evidence of Ghomeshi's prominent role at the network. A sprawling floor-to-ceiling advertisement for "Q" featuring Ghomeshi's smiling visage was torn down from CBC headquarters. However, many noted that the same image still advertised "Q" on CBC's mobile app.
"Q," which launched in 2007, is also broadcast on over 180 NPR/PRI stations and syndicated in the U.S.
Julia Yager, a spokeswoman for PRI, said Sunday that the radio broadcaster will "work with the CBC as they plan what is next for Q."
