Carol Kirkwood Denies Being 'Pushed Out' in Emotional BBC Breakfast Farewell
Carol Kirkwood has firmly clarified the reasons behind her departure from BBC Breakfast, marking her final day on the show with heartfelt tributes and a clear statement that she was not forced to leave. The beloved weather presenter, who joined the broadcaster in 1998, announced earlier this year that she would be stepping back after nearly three decades, and today celebrated her last appearance alongside hosts Sally Nugent and Jon Kay.
An Emotional Tribute and Personal Decision
During her farewell show, Kirkwood was surprised with messages from fans and friends, as clips showcased audience memories of her iconic moments. Reflecting on her career, she looked back at highlights including a stint on Strictly Come Dancing and presenting the weather live from various locations across the country. After watching an emotional tribute, Kirkwood joked that she was "in denial" about her exit, but emphasized that the decision was entirely her own.
When asked if she had mentally adjusted to no longer needing to wake up at 3am, Kirkwood replied, "No, I think I'm in denial. I expect I'll probably rock up on Monday." Jon Kay humorously responded, "Well, your pass will be cancelled, your locker will be thrown away!" Kirkwood went on to express how strange it will feel after 28 years of early starts, stating, "It's going to be so weird, for 28 years, I've been getting up at 2.45. But do you know, I'm privileged, I do a fabulous job, I'm not running into burning buildings and saving lives."
Missing the BBC Family and Viewers
She added that it will be particularly difficult not to interact with the audience and colleagues daily, saying, "It's going to be weird not speaking to all our lovely audience, all our viewers. Not seeing you every day, not seeing the crew both in front and behind the camera, not just on Breakfast but BBC Weather as well. It's going to be different, and I'm going to miss everyone horribly." As Sally Nugent remarked that Kirkwood will be "having the time of her life," the weather presenter clarified, "I'm not being pushed out, I'm choosing to leave myself."
Earlier in the programme, Kirkwood presented one of her final weather segments, examining the forecast for the Easter weekend. Sally Nugent chuckled, "Some tricky weather over the weekend, we might just need you to stay, Carol... I don't think we can let you leave!" Kirkwood responded light-heartedly, "I might just stay now that I'm on the sofa!"
A Tearful Announcement and Lasting Memories
Kirkwood announced her departure earlier this year, becoming teary-eyed as she explained her reasoning. She held back tears and told viewers she had "loved every minute," adding that it hadn't been "an easy decision to make" but it "felt like the right moment to step away." She said, "I'll carry with me the most wonderful memories."
Reflecting on her career, Kirkwood stated, "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. I'd like to thank them for their support and friendship, which has meant the world." With a message to viewers, she concluded, "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." BBC Breakfast continues to air from 6am on BBC One and iPlayer.
