Veteran weather presenter Carol Kirkwood fought back tears as she announced live on BBC Breakfast that she will be leaving the corporation after more than 25 years. Hugging her co-presenters Jon Kay and Sally Nugent, Kirkwood admitted it was “really hard” to say goodbye to a job she has loved since joining the BBC in 1998.
Looking Ahead to New Chapter
The 63-year-old revealed she will step down in April, explaining that she wants to spend more time with her husband Steve and travel together. “We only got married a couple of years ago and we’re ships that pass in the night,” she said. “I’ve loved my job, I’ve loved working at the BBC, but I love my husband more than my job.”
Kirkwood joked about finally enjoying “lie-ins” after decades of early-morning starts, saying alarm clocks will soon be “a thing of the past.”
A Distinguished Career
Kirkwood began her career at The Weather Channel and the Met Office before joining the BBC Weather Centre in 1998. She quickly became a familiar face on BBC News and BBC One, and since 2010 has been the main weather presenter on BBC Breakfast. Her career highlights include presenting from Wimbledon, the Chelsea Flower Show, and royal events. She also reported for The One Show and competed on Strictly Come Dancing in 2015, reaching week eight with professional partner Pasha Kovalev.
Awards and Recognition
Over the years, Kirkwood has been repeatedly named Best TV Weather Presenter at the TRIC Awards. She has often spoken about how much she values her role, telling viewers: “My job is something I’ve never taken for granted and I’ve loved every minute. To those watching and listening at home – thank you for all the kindness you have shown me over the years. Being part of your mornings has been a joy.”
BBC Pays Tribute
Jonathan Munro, interim CEO of BBC News, praised Kirkwood’s contribution, calling her “exceptional.” He said: “From major national moments to the everyday forecasts that are such an important part of our audiences’ lives, she has set the gold standard for our accurate, valued journalism – always delivered with an appropriately sunny outlook. She will be greatly missed by teams across the BBC.”
Legacy of Warmth and Professionalism
Kirkwood’s departure marks the end of an era for BBC Breakfast. Her warmth, professionalism, and ability to connect with audiences have made her one of the UK’s most beloved broadcasters. As she prepares to embark on new adventures, her legacy as a trusted voice in British broadcasting remains secure.
