BBC Breakfast has delivered an emotional and heartfelt tribute to Carol Kirkwood as the beloved weather presenter marked her final day on the programme. The 63-year-old broadcaster, who announced earlier this year that she would be stepping back from her role, was honoured with a special segment showcasing her best moments from nearly three decades on air.
A Fond Farewell on the Sofa
Carol Kirkwood was joined by presenters Sally Nugent and Jon Kay for her final appearance, where she delivered one last weather report looking ahead to the Easter weekend. Following her forecast, Sally Nugent laughed and remarked, "Some tricky weather over the weekend, we might just need you to stay, Carol... I don't think we can let you leave!" To which Carol replied warmly, "I might just stay now that I'm on the sofa!"
Decades of Dedication
Carol Kirkwood first joined the BBC in 1998 and has become a cherished fixture of morning television. During her farewell segment, the programme aired a special video compilation featuring highlights from her career, including memorable interactions with viewers, babies, and even dogs who showed their affection for her on screen.
Sally Nugent noted that they had never received more messages for any other segment, as thousands of fans shared their support and personal memories of Carol. One viewer described her as a "comfort blanket," while another recalled watching Carol on BBC Breakfast as a baby and now tuning in with her own child.
Viewer Connections and Cherished Memories
After watching the tribute video, Carol reflected on her deep connection with the audience. "Everybody I've met at home has been so special," she said. "Our viewers come up and chat, and I love that, I love finding out how they're getting on, how their day is going, and we just chit-chat about anything."
She added with characteristic humour, "And sometimes I think, I'm on in two minutes, I've got to go, and leg it over to the camera! But it's so lovely to meet our audience, they're the best audience!"
A Difficult Decision
When announcing her departure earlier this year, Carol held back tears as she explained her decision. "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," she said.
She continued, "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."
Looking to the Future
Carol concluded her announcement by thanking viewers directly. "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." She revealed plans to spend more time with her husband Steve, focus on writing her books, and travel more extensively.
In a particularly poignant moment, she told Sally and Jon, "It's really hard for me to say this because I love my job. 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. 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!'"
BBC Breakfast continues to air daily from 6am on BBC One and iPlayer, but will now do so without one of its most recognisable and beloved presenters after Carol Kirkwood's 28-year tenure.
