Chris Thile to Take Over As “A Prairie Home Companion” Host for 2015-16 Season

June 29, 2015 11:59 am

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Chris Thile performs with Punch Brothers at the 2012 Billy Reid Shindig, in Austin.

Garrison Keillor, creator and longtime host of beloved radio variety show “A Prairie Home Companion,” will turn over hosting duties to musician Chris Thile for the 2015-16 season, according to a report in the Berkshire [Massachusetts] Eagle.

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Thile is best known for his work with progressive bluegrass trio Nickel Creek (reunited in 2014) and his current project Punch Brothers. He has been a frequent guest on the show and has even guest-hosted twice in the past. Thile is set to run the show for two weeks, and will co-host with Keillor for several additional performances before transitioning into the program’s full-time host.

“Chris is my man,” said Keillor, “and I’m eager to stay home and read books. But of course, I’ll do whatever needs to be done to assure an easy transition.”