Carol Kirkwood to leave BBC after 25 years as she shares emotional goodbye

Carol Kirkwood has confirmed she is leaving the BBC after more than 25 years, bringing an end to one of the most familiar and enduring presences on British breakfast television.

The weather presenter, 63, announced she will step away from the broadcaster in April, calling the decision difficult but saying it felt like the right moment to move on.

“This hasn’t been an easy decision to make,” Kirkwood said in a statement. “But it feels like the right time.”

An end of an era for BBC Breakfast viewers

Kirkwood joined the BBC in 1998 and went on to become one of the longest-serving faces on BBC Breakfast, delivering forecasts through major national moments as well as everyday mornings for millions of viewers.

Reflecting on her career, she said she had “loved every minute” of the role and never taken her position for granted.

“From early starts to all manner of forecasts, I’ve shared it with incredible colleagues,” she said. “Being part of people’s mornings has been a joy.”

BBC pays tribute as questions turn to what’s next

Jonathan Munro, interim CEO of BBC News and Current Affairs, praised Kirkwood’s contribution, saying she set the “gold standard” for trusted broadcasting and would be greatly missed.

Kirkwood’s departure has prompted an outpouring of reaction from viewers and colleagues, many calling her exit the end of an era for the programme.

More than just the weather

Over the years, Kirkwood became known not just for her forecasts but for her warmth and resilience. She has previously spoken about continuing to present during difficult periods in her personal life, admitting she sometimes had to put on a brave face on air.

Away from weather presenting, she appeared on Strictly Come Dancing in 2015 and has received multiple industry awards recognising her contribution to broadcasting.

A quiet farewell, for now

Kirkwood has not yet revealed what she plans to do next, but her announcement has left many viewers wondering what BBC Breakfast mornings will look like without her.