In a deeply emotional live broadcast on BBC Breakfast this morning, January 27, 2026, beloved weather presenter Carol Kirkwood fought back tears as she revealed she will be leaving the BBC after more than 25 years of dedicated service. The announcement, delivered from the iconic sofa alongside co-presenters Sally Nugent and Jon Kay, left viewers and colleagues stunned, with millions tuning in to witness the poignant moment unfold in real time.

Kirkwood, 63, joined the BBC in 1998 after training with the Met Office and quickly became a staple of morning television. Her warm, professional delivery, cheerful demeanor, and impeccable forecasts made her a household name across the UK. Over the decades, she earned nine TRIC Awards for Best TV Weather Presenter (from 2012 to 2017 consecutively, after which the category was retired), solidifying her status as one of the most recognized and adored figures on British TV.

During the segment, following her regular weather update, Kirkwood sat down with Nugent and Kay to share the news. Her voice cracking with emotion, she said: “I’m going to be leaving — and it’s really hard, 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.” She hugged her co-presenters tightly, visibly moved, before adding that the decision “hasn’t been an easy one to make, but it feels like the right moment to step away.”

The presenter emphasized the privilege of her role, stating she had “loved every minute” at the corporation and was grateful for the opportunity to “bring you the weather every day.” Kirkwood explained her plans for the future: spending more quality time with her husband Steve and embarking on travels she has long looked forward to. “I’m looking forward to spending more time with Steve, my gorgeous husband,” she shared, highlighting personal priorities after years of early mornings and demanding schedules.

The announcement came without prior widespread rumors, making it feel sudden to many fans. Social media erupted immediately with an outpouring of support, nostalgia, and well-wishes. Viewers flooded X (formerly Twitter) and other platforms with messages like “Devastated but happy for her,” “She’s been part of my mornings forever,” and “Thank you for every smile and forecast, Carol.” Tributes poured in from colleagues across the BBC, including weather team members who praised her mentorship and positivity.

Kirkwood’s departure is set for April 2026, giving her a few more months to bid farewell to audiences. BBC bosses described her as “a familiar and much-loved presence” who brought warmth and professionalism to the screen. Her exit marks the end of an era for BBC Breakfast, where she has been a constant amid changing presenters and formats.

While some online speculation initially swirled about a “shocking reason” behind the move, Kirkwood’s statement made clear it stems from a positive desire for new chapters rather than any controversy or dissatisfaction. She leaves on her own terms, with gratitude and no regrets.

As the news spreads, fans reflect on Kirkwood’s legacy: not just as a weather expert, but as a comforting voice during storms, heatwaves, and everyday mornings. Her on-air poise, even in emotional moments like today’s, exemplifies the dedication that made her a national treasure. Viewers will undoubtedly miss her sunny disposition—both literal and figurative—as April approaches.