In a surprising revelation, veteran BBC News presenter Clive Myrie has disclosed that, despite nearly four decades in front of the camera, he does not own a television. The 61-year-old broadcaster, known for his roles on BBC News at Six and Ten, as well as the quiz show Mastermind, opts for a more minimalist approach to media consumption, choosing to watch programmes on his laptop instead.
A Different Approach to Entertainment
Myrie and his wife, Catherine, a furniture restorer, have made a conscious decision to keep their home TV-free, believing that televisions “suck the energy out of a room.” In an interview with The Times, he shared insights into his evening routine. After wrapping up his shift on News at Ten, which concludes around 10:35 PM, Myrie typically arrives home by 11 PM. He enjoys a brief catch-up with Catherine over a glass of wine before settling down to watch shows like *Two Weeks in August* on his laptop from the comfort of their bed.
“We don’t have TVs around the house,” he explained. “They suck the energy out of a room, so we’ll watch it on a laptop and be asleep by 12.30 AM.”
Prioritising Quality Over Quantity
Interestingly, Myrie also revealed that he prefers to avoid traditional news broadcasts. Instead, he gravitates towards documentaries and programmes like Radio 4’s *Today*, which he believes offer a more nuanced take on current events. This choice reflects a desire to engage with content that fosters deeper understanding rather than the often sensationalised news cycle.
Having embarked on his career as a trainee reporter at the BBC in 1987, Myrie has established himself as a stalwart of British journalism. His extensive experience spans local radio and regional television, culminating in his prominent roles at the BBC. Despite his illustrious career, his decision to forgo television at home highlights a personal commitment to simplicity and mindfulness.
A Trend Among Media Personalities
Myrie is not alone in his unconventional stance. Other familiar faces from the BBC have also admitted to living without television. Television presenter Claudia Winkleman disclosed in 2015 that she has no TVs in her home, stating, “We need to learn when to switch off.” Similarly, singer Paloma Faith mentioned in 2012 that she avoids television and print media to limit external influence on her thoughts. More recently, in 2023, former *EastEnders* star Bobby Brazier shared his preference for meditation over television watching.
Behind the Scenes of Mastermind
Earlier this year, Myrie’s appearance on the cooking show *Saturday Kitchen* became a sensation when he shared behind-the-scenes anecdotes from *Mastermind*. After a glass of wine, he casually revealed a playful tidbit about a romantic connection between contestants, which resonated with viewers and sparked laughter across social media platforms. “I can imagine a night out, or at least a couple of drinks, with Myrie would be a right laugh,” one viewer noted on X.
Why it Matters
Clive Myrie’s choice to forgo a television underscores a growing trend among public figures who prioritise mental wellness and intentional media consumption over conventional habits. In an age where information overload is prevalent, his lifestyle serves as a reminder of the importance of curating our media interactions. By opting for more meaningful engagement with content, both Myrie and his peers are challenging the status quo and encouraging audiences to reconsider their own viewing habits. This shift not only promotes a more mindful approach to media consumption but also sparks broader conversations about the impact of technology on our lives.
