Naga Munchetty returned to the BBC Breakfast sofa on Thursday, July 30, for the first time since announcing her departure from the programme. The 51-year-old presenter appeared alongside co-host Charlie Stayt to deliver the latest news headlines.
Announcement of departure and new role
It was announced on Tuesday, July 28, that Munchetty will leave BBC Breakfast after 17 years to join Radio 5 Live as co-host of its Breakfast show starting in January. She has presented the station's weekday mid-morning programme since 2021.
"I'm thrilled to be joining 5 Live Breakfast in January. Live news, great conversations and connecting with audiences are what I love most about broadcasting, and 5 Live does all of that brilliantly," Munchetty said.
Reflections on her tenure
"It has been a privilege to be part of the BBC Breakfast TV team for the past 17 years, working alongside an incredibly talented and hard-working group of journalists who are not only outstanding colleagues but also great friends," she added.
"Presenting a flagship programme on 5 Live is an opportunity that was simply too good to pass up. It will take a huge amount of work and require 100% of my focus and energy, and I’m really looking forward to throwing myself into the role."
Connection with 5 Live listeners
Munchetty noted her existing relationship with 5 Live listeners: "Over the last five years, I’ve been privileged to build a relationship with 5 Live listeners on the mid-morning programme and help shine a light on the issues that matter most to them. I'm excited to build on that in the Breakfast slot and to start each day with our listeners every morning."
She said she will continue presenting both programmes until January: "Between now and January, I’ll continue presenting the two programmes I love. I'm sure there will be plenty of news to cover, and it will very much be business as usual."
Colleagues announce the news
Munchetty's colleagues Sally Nugent and Jon Kay announced the news live on BBC Breakfast on Tuesday, shortly after Munchetty confirmed her exit on 5 Live. Jon said: "Our friend and colleague Naga Munchetty has announced that she will be leaving BBC Breakfast to co-present the BBC 5 Live Breakfast Show from January next year." Sally added: "Naga has just shared the news with the current presenters Rachel Burden and Rick Edwards."
It is not yet known who will be Munchetty's co-host on 5 Live. BBC Breakfast airs daily on BBC One at 6am.
