Carol Kirkwood Tearfully Announces BBC Breakfast Exit Live On Air

BBC Breakfast staple Carol Kirkwood has announced that she is stepping down from the show after more than 25 years as its resident weather presenter.

On Tuesday morning, a tearful Carol told Sally Nugent and Jon Kay: “I am going to be leaving. 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 with a zimmerframe like, ‘I can’t reach the northern isles anymore!’.”

When Sally joked that the “outlook for you is sunshine all the way”, Carol beamed: “I’m going to be spending more time with Steve, my gorgeous husband. We only got married a couple of years ago and we’re ships that pass in the night, so I’m so looking forward to doing that.

“I’ve still got my books, I’ve got a few other bits and pieces, I want to travel as well.”

She added: “I didn’t want to get emotional, but you two are my friends and I love you dearly, so I’m sorry I did!”

In an official statement, Carol explained: “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.

“And 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. 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.

Carol will remain with BBC Breakfast until April when she hands over the reins to a new presenter.

She revealed that she first worked behind the scenes of BBC Breakfast when it premiered, initially as a production secretary and a production assistant before landing her on-air role as a weather presenter.

In addition to her BBC Breakfast work, she has also competed on Strictly Come Dancing, and fronts coverage of the Chelsea Flower Show, Wimbledon and other live news broadcasts.