BBC Breakfast received official complaints from viewers regarding Naga Munchetty's treatment of Carol Kirkwood during the weather presenter's final appearance on the show. The incident occurred on April 1, when Carol Kirkwood retired after more than 25 years on air.
Final Broadcast Sparks Viewer Backlash
During the broadcast, Naga Munchetty, 51, made remarks that some viewers described as 'rude' towards the 64-year-old Scottish weather presenter. As Carol's final moments on the show approached, she thanked her colleagues and seemed surprised that Naga was present. Naga replied, 'I'm just waiting for the countdown for you to go!'
Carol was presented with an illustration by Adam Hargreaves, creator of the Mr. Men books, depicting her as Little Miss Sunshine. An emotional Carol said, 'I will treasure this! It's going to have pride of place...' before Naga interrupted, 'In the toilet?'
Naga then asked Carol if she had stolen anything from the BBC and offered her a mug. When a celebratory cake was brought out, Naga questioned, 'Are you going to break the habit of a lifetime and actually share the cake?' Carol responded, 'No, Naga, absolutely not - why would I do that?' Naga retorted, 'Exactly. Why change it? We're only going to remember you one way.'
Complaints Not Upheld
While studio hosts Jon Kay, Sally Nugent, and others appeared amused, viewers at home had a different reaction. The BBC's fortnightly complaints report, covering June 1 to June 14, revealed that several viewers complained about 'offensive treatment of Carol Kirkwood.' However, the BBC did not uphold these complaints.
A TV insider emphasized that Naga and Carol 'have been very close personal friends for many years, as well as being very good colleagues.' A source told The Sun: 'Everyone involved in Carol Kirkwood's last programme for Breakfast on 1 April was there to pay tribute to Carol's long service for the BBC, and they all did so fittingly.'
Carol's Emotional Farewell
Carol announced her retirement earlier this year, becoming emotional as she discussed her decision with Jon and Sally. She said, 'I am going to be leaving. It's really, really hard for me to say this. I love my job. I love all of you guys, my weather colleagues, every department I work with, and, of course, all the viewers I've been so engaged with for many years. But it's great. I don't want to be coming in with my Zimmer frame when I can't reach the northern Isles anymore.'
She added, 'I'm going to be spending more time with Steve, my gorgeous husband. We have been married a couple of years ago but we are like ships passing in the night, so I'm so looking forward to doing that. I've still got my books, you know, I've got a few other bits and pieces. I want to travel. We want to travel as well.'
