Long-serving BBC Breakfast weather presenter Carol Kirkwood fought back tears during an emotional on-air announcement that she will be leaving the corporation after more than 25 years of service.
An Emotional Farewell on Breakfast Television
The 63-year-old broadcaster, who has been the main weather presenter on BBC Breakfast since 2010, became visibly emotional as she revealed her decision to step down during Tuesday morning's programme. Presenters Sally Nugent and Jon Kay invited Kirkwood to join them on the sofa immediately after she had delivered one of her regular weather forecasts, creating a poignant moment for viewers.
A Difficult Decision After Decades of Service
"It's really hard – really hard – for me to say this," Kirkwood told her colleagues, her voice trembling with emotion. "I love my job. I love 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."
The veteran presenter, who joined the BBC in 1998, explained that she would be departing in April, marking the end of an era for one of British television's most familiar faces. Her announcement prompted an outpouring of support from colleagues and viewers alike.
Personal Reasons Behind the Departure
Kirkwood revealed that personal considerations played a significant role in her decision, particularly her desire to spend more time with her husband Steve, whom she married just a couple of years ago. "We're ships that pass in the night," she explained, highlighting the demanding schedule that comes with early morning television presenting.
"I'm so looking forward to doing that," she added, referring to the opportunity to prioritise her marriage. The presenter also expressed excitement about future travel plans, joking about her unfamiliarity with the concept of a lie-in after years of pre-dawn starts.
A Storied Career and Industry Recognition
Throughout her distinguished career, Kirkwood has become synonymous with major national events, providing weather coverage for Wimbledon, the Chelsea Flower Show, and Royal Ascot. Her meteorological training, undertaken at The Weather Channel, the Met Office, and the BBC itself, established her as one of the country's most trusted forecasters.
The Television and Radio Industries Club has repeatedly honoured Kirkwood with awards naming her best TV weather presenter, while her 2015 appearance on Strictly Come Dancing, where she reached week eight with professional partner Pasha Kovalev, further endeared her to the British public.
Tributes from BBC Leadership
Jonathan Munro, interim chief executive at BBC News and Current Affairs, paid tribute to Kirkwood's exceptional contribution. "Carol's contribution to BBC News and BBC Weather has been exceptional," he stated. "From major national moments to the everyday forecasts that are such an important part of our audience's lives, she has set the gold standard for our accurate, valued journalism – always delivered with an appropriately sunny outlook."
Munro added that Kirkwood would be "greatly missed by teams across the BBC" and extended best wishes for her future endeavours.
A Legacy of Professionalism and Warmth
In an official statement released by the BBC, Kirkwood reflected on her tenure: "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 expressed gratitude to colleagues across BBC Breakfast, BBC Weather, and various programmes, thanking them for their "support and friendship which has meant the world." To viewers, she added: "Thank you for all the kindness you have shown me over the years, being part of your mornings has been a joy."
Kirkwood acknowledged the difficulty of her decision but confirmed that "it feels like the right moment to step away," promising to carry with her "the most wonderful memories" of her broadcasting career.
