Clive Myrie, the veteran BBC News presenter, has disclosed the most harrowing images from his decades-long career, admitting that certain experiences from reporting in conflict zones such as Ukraine continue to haunt him. In an interview with The i Paper, Myrie explained that while he has developed coping mechanisms to separate his professional and personal life, some memories remain indelible.
Compartmentalizing Trauma
Myrie, who has reported from more than 90 countries, said: "I've got better at compartmentalising as I've got older. Some things live with you, obviously. There is no question that some of the images I saw reporting from Ukraine, or some of the more disturbing stories I've had to read on the news, stay with you. But, on the whole, I can shut that out and switch off." The 61-year-old journalist began his BBC career as a trainee local radio reporter at BBC Radio Bristol, later moving to Points West and BBC television and radio news before becoming a foreign correspondent.
Balancing Life Beyond News
Myrie emphasized the importance of a rounded life to maintain his well-being. He stated: "I want my life to be about the good, interesting stuff. I don't particularly want to be thinking about Donald Trump or Keir Starmer on my deathbed. I want to be thinking about art or music or something uplifting. I try to live a rounded life; I make time to go to galleries and concerts. I have lunches with friends. I make sure that's part of who I am, and part of my routine, because that is what helps keep me going."
Limiting News Consumption
Despite hosting major current affairs programs, Myrie intentionally restricts his news intake when off duty. He said: "I'll listen to the Today programme headlines at 6am. Then, unless there is something I'm fascinated by, I'll switch over to Radio 3 and not look at the news again all day. So I have no idea what's going on in the world at that moment - and I don't really care, because I'm going to find out about it later."
No Plans for Retirement
Myrie, who has covered conflicts in Kosovo, Afghanistan, and Iraq—including a perilous assignment where he wrote a "goodbye" letter to his family—has no intention of retiring soon. He explained: "As long as the BBC still wants me - or any broadcaster still wants me - and I'm still able to do it, I'll keep going. Retirement isn't on the cards any time soon. I still enjoy it, even in the tough times. I still get a buzz from being in a place of jeopardy. Maybe not as much as I used to, but there is still an excitement there."
