After three seasons as host of the Antiques Roadshow, Dan Elias is leaving the popular PBS television program in order to devote full time energies to his contemporary art business. Elias will continue his affiliation with the series through 2003, appearing on new programs that have already been taped, beginning with the premiere of Roadshow's seventh season January 6, 2003.

Elias came on board the Roadshow in 2000, taking over for original host, Chris Jussel. "It's been a great ride and a wonderful opportunity to discover America firsthand through the people, objects, and stories we encountered on the road. But the demands of television production have been tough to balance with my primary profession as contemporary art dealer and owner of Elias Fine Art in Allston, Massachusetts," said Elias in a statement. "It's time for me to get back to business."

No decisions have been made about who will replace Elias as host of the Roadshow, or if there will be a host at all. "All options are being considered," said a WGBH spokersperson. "We should have a decision in place by Spring of next year."

"Dan has been an invaluable member of Roadshow's creative team, a great presence on the show," said Roadshow executive producer Peter B. Cook. "The new programs that begin in January are a lot of fun, showcasing Dan in some surprising and inventive ways. We'll miss him."

http://www.pbs.org/antiques