A BBC weather presenter's fashionable outfit choice became an unexpected focal point for viewers during a recent broadcast, sparking a flurry of online commentary and debate.
Live Forecast Fashion Moment
Whilst delivering the weather forecast on the BBC's flagship Six O'Clock News programme, presenter Lizzie Rizzini experienced what some viewers described as a minor wardrobe malfunction. The 49-year-old meteorologist was wearing a chic denim midi dress featuring a central zip design, which created a slit at the bottom of the garment.
As Rizzini moved during her presentation, the slit opened momentarily, revealing what appeared to be the lace tops of her stockings to the camera. The brief visual moment did not go unnoticed by the programme's audience, with several taking to social media to share their observations.
Viewer Reactions and Speculation
The incident prompted varied responses from those watching at home. One viewer commented that it "certainly brightens up dull weather," while another remarked it was "taking our minds off the miserable weather." A third viewer directly questioned: "Is that a black lace stocking-top I spy on the BBC News Weather?" adding they had never witnessed "stocking tops on the BBC before."
However, not all observers agreed on what had been revealed. Some suggested alternative explanations, with one viewer proposing: "Sorry to rain on your parade, but suspect they are cycling shorts or thermals." Another theory put forward was that the visible item might have been a black band used to secure a microphone rather than any form of hosiery.
Carol Kirkwood's Departure Mentioned
The incident occurred against the backdrop of another significant development in BBC weather presenting. Veteran forecaster Carol Kirkwood, who has been a fixture on BBC Breakfast since 1998, recently announced her decision to step back from the programme. One viewer referenced this transition, commenting that Rizzini's moment demonstrated "there is life after Carol Kirkwood."
Kirkwood explained her departure during an emotional on-air announcement, stating: "So, I'm going to be leaving – and it's really hard, really hard for me to say this because I love my job. I love all of you guys and my weather colleagues and, of course, all the viewers." She cited a desire to spend more time with her husband as the primary reason for her decision.
In a subsequent social media statement, Kirkwood reflected: "It's been an absolute privilege to bring you the weather every day. My job is something I've never taken for granted, and I've loved every minute!" She is scheduled to leave the BBC at the end of April, with no replacement yet announced.
BBC's Response to Kirkwood's Departure
The corporation released an official statement acknowledging Kirkwood's contribution: "Carol's contribution to BBC News and BBC Weather has been exceptional. 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."
The statement continued: "She will be greatly missed by teams across the BBC. We wish her all the best for the future."
The combination of Rizzini's unintentional fashion moment and Kirkwood's impending departure has created an unusual convergence of weather-related news stories, highlighting how even routine broadcasts can sometimes generate unexpected viewer engagement and discussion.
