Good Morning Britain presenter Susanna Reid has shared a deeply personal and emotional tribute to her close friend and former colleague Carol Kirkwood, following the beloved weather presenter's announcement that she will be leaving BBC Breakfast after decades with the corporation.
An Emotional Farewell Announcement
Carol Kirkwood confirmed her departure during an emotional interview on BBC Breakfast earlier today, Tuesday 27 January 2026, with presenters Jon Kay and Sally Nugent. The veteran broadcaster, who joined the BBC in 1998, revealed she would be leaving the corporation in April, describing the decision as difficult but feeling it was "the right moment to step away."
Visibly emotional during the announcement, Kirkwood reflected on her long career, stating: "This hasn't been an easy decision to make, but it feels like the right moment to step away. I'll carry with me the most wonderful memories."
A Career Celebrated
Kirkwood went on to express her gratitude for the opportunity to work at the BBC, emphasising: "My job is something I've never taken for granted and I've loved every minute. From early starts and all manner of forecasts, I've shared it with incredible colleagues at BBC Breakfast, BBC Weather and programmes across the BBC."
The weather presenter specifically thanked her colleagues for their support and friendship, which she said had "meant the world" to her throughout her career. She also addressed viewers directly, telling them: "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."
Future Plans and Emotional Reflections
Looking ahead to her life after BBC Breakfast, Kirkwood revealed plans to spend more time with her husband Steve, focus on writing her books, and enjoy more travel opportunities. During the emotional interview, she became choked up while expressing her affection for her work and colleagues.
"It's really hard for me to say this because I love my job," Kirkwood told Kay and Nugent. "I love all of you guys, my weather colleagues, every department I've worked with, and of course, all the viewers I've been so engaged with for many years."
She added with characteristic humour: "But it's great! I don't want to be coming in on my Zimmer frame, going, 'I can't reach the Northern Isles anymore!'"
Susanna Reid's Personal Tribute
Among the many tributes flooding in following Kirkwood's announcement, Susanna Reid's stood out for its personal warmth and intimate recollections. The Good Morning Britain star took to social media to share her heartfelt message about her close friend.
Reid wrote: "CAROL KIRKWOOD! The gorgeous force of nature @carolkirkwood is leaving BBC Breakfast. Let me tell you a few things about Carol, having been lucky enough to have worked with her (and shared a hotel room with her on a hen weekend)."
She continued with three specific observations about Kirkwood's character:
- "I have NEVER seen her in a bad mood."
- "She sends cards EVERY birthday and Christmas."
- "She ALWAYS has a giggle with every viewer who recognises her off air - and everyone does."
Reid concluded her tribute with warm wishes: "Good luck Carol - enjoy your well-deserved lie-ins. Love you."
A Shared Broadcasting History
The connection between Reid and Kirkwood dates back to Reid's time as a BBC Breakfast presenter from 2001 until 2014, when she worked alongside Bill Turnbull and Charlie Stayt before moving to Good Morning Britain. Their professional relationship blossomed into a genuine friendship that has endured beyond their time working together on the same programme.
Industry and Fan Reactions
Reid's tribute was met with widespread support from followers, with one commenting: "Absolutely fabulous picture. Good luck with your new venture, beautiful lovely @carolkirkwood." Another remarked: "What a lovely pair," while a third added: "This has genuinely made me sad."
Former BBC Breakfast presenter Dan Walker also marked the occasion, describing Kirkwood's departure as "the end of an era." He shared on social media: "I still get asked what Carol is like in real life and she is just the same lovely person you see on the telly. She was always so kind, generous and funny on and off screen and she will be hugely missed on @BBCBreakfast."
Walker added his own well-wishes: "Throw that alarm clock away Carol. Long may she reign."
The outpouring of affection for Kirkwood following her announcement demonstrates the significant impact she has had on both colleagues and viewers throughout her distinguished broadcasting career. As she prepares to leave BBC Breakfast after nearly three decades, the warmth of the tributes reflects the genuine affection she has inspired across the industry and among the British public.
