In an emotional announcement, Carol Kirkwood revealed that she will be departing from the BBC after more than two decades of dedicated service. The beloved weather presenter, aged 63, shared her decision during a heartfelt segment on BBC Breakfast, expressing her deep affection for her colleagues and her commitment to embracing a new chapter in her life. Kirkwood, who started her journey with the BBC in 1998, will officially conclude her role in April.
A Bittersweet Goodbye
During her final weather forecast, Kirkwood hugged her fellow presenters Jon Kay and Sally Nugent, visibly touched as she shared her sentiments. “This is really hard for me to say because I love my job,” she admitted, her eyes glistening with emotion. The presenter plans to spend more time with her husband, Steve, and to pursue travel opportunities together—a commitment that she feels is long overdue.
Reflecting on her marriage, she stated, “We only got married a couple of years ago, and we’re ships that pass in the night, so I’m really looking forward to doing that.” She added, “I’ve loved my job, I’ve loved working at the BBC, but I love my husband more than my job.”
New Adventures Await
Kirkwood’s departure marks the end of an era for both her and the BBC, where she has been a prominent figure since joining the BBC Weather Centre. Her extensive training at The Weather Channel, the Met Office, and the BBC prepared her for a career that has seen her become a household name. She has been the main weather presenter on BBC Breakfast since 2010, delivering forecasts that have become integral to the viewers’ morning routines.
In her farewell message, she acknowledged the support she has received from the audience over the years, stating, “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.”
Industry Acknowledgment
Kirkwood’s contributions to broadcasting have not gone unnoticed; she has received numerous accolades, including recognition as the best TV weather presenter at the TV and Radio Industries Club (TRIC) Awards multiple times. Her ability to connect with the audience, even when delivering the most routine forecasts, has set a benchmark in the industry.
Jonathan Munro, interim CEO of BBC News, praised Kirkwood’s exceptional dedication, stating, “From major national moments to the everyday forecasts that are such an important part of our audiences’ lives, she has set the gold standard for our accurate, valued journalism—always delivered with an appropriately sunny outlook.” He expressed that she would be greatly missed by her colleagues.
Why it Matters
Carol Kirkwood’s departure from the BBC signifies not just the end of her illustrious career with the corporation but also a pivotal moment for viewers who have come to rely on her warm presence and expert forecasts. As she transitions to a life focused on personal fulfilment and new adventures, her legacy as a respected figure in British broadcasting will undoubtedly resonate with audiences for years to come. Her journey illustrates the importance of balancing career aspirations with personal happiness, inspiring many to embrace change when the time is right.
