Carol Kirkwood Leaving Breakfast: Reason Behind BBC Exit

Carol Kirkwood, the beloved weather presenter, announced her departure from BBC Breakfast after more than 25 years with the broadcaster. The 63-year-old made the emotional announcement live on air this morning, visibly holding back tears as she shared the news with viewers and her BBC Breakfast colleagues Sally Nugent and Jon Kay.

A Distinguished Career

Kirkwood joined the BBC in 1998 after receiving meteorological training at The Weather Channel, the Met Office, and the BBC. She began her broadcasting journey on the BBC News channel before becoming a regular fixture on BBC One. Since 2010, she has been the main weather presenter on BBC Breakfast. She is now one of the most recognisable faces in British morning TV.

Kirkwood’s work goes beyond daily forecasts. She has reported on big events like Wimbledon, the Chelsea Flower Show, Royal Ascot, and several royal occasions. She has also appeared on other BBC programs, including The One Show, and memorably competed on Strictly Come Dancing in 2015, where she partnered with professional dancer Pasha Kovalev and reached week eight of the competition.

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Reasons for Leaving

In her announcement, Kirkwood explained that while the decision was difficult, she felt it was the right time to step away. She emphasised her desire to spend more time with her husband, Steve Randall, whom she married in 2022. The couple announced their engagement live on BBC Breakfast from the Chelsea Flower Show in May 2022.

During her on-air announcement, Kirkwood said she looked forward to spending more time with Steve, noting they had only married a couple of years ago and were like “ships that pass in the night”. She humorously added that she didn’t want to continue until she needed assistance reaching the weather map.

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Tributes and Departure Timeline

Kirkwood is scheduled to step down in April 2026.

Jonathan Munro, the interim chief executive at BBC News and Current Affairs, praised her outstanding work at BBC News and BBC Weather. He noted that she set the gold standard for accurate journalism delivered with positivity.

In her statement, Kirkwood thanked her colleagues and viewers. She recognised the privilege of giving daily weather forecasts and the support she got throughout her career. Her departure marks the end of an era for BBC Breakfast viewers, who have relied on her forecasts and warm personality for over 25 years.

This announcement brings a significant change for BBC Breakfast. Kirkwood has been a reliable presence through many early mornings and different weather. He has become one of Britain’s most trusted and loved weather presenters.