Carol Kirkwood has announced her departure from the BBC after more than 25 years with the broadcaster, bringing an emotional close to a career that made her one of Britain’s most recognisable weather presenters.
The announcement came during the closing moments of BBC Breakfast on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, catching viewers by surprise.
Kirkwood, 63, said the decision was difficult but felt right. She told viewers she had “loved every minute” of her time at the BBC and would leave with cherished memories.
During her final appearance, she became emotional as she reflected on her career. She said her role was something she never took for granted and thanked audiences for allowing her to be part of their mornings for so many years.
She also expressed gratitude to her colleagues across BBC Breakfast, BBC Weather, and other BBC programmes, praising their support and friendship throughout her journey.
Weather presenter Carol Kirkwood to leave BBC after more than 25 years, saying she has “loved every minute” https://t.co/srRfuESrZi
— BBC News (UK) (@BBCNews) January 27, 2026Looking ahead, Kirkwood shared that she plans to focus on travel and writing. She described the next chapter of her life as “rosy” and said the timing felt absolutely right. Her farewell message struck a chord with viewers online, many of whom shared messages of appreciation and nostalgia following the broadcast.
Carol Kirkwood joined the BBC Weather Centre in April 1998. She began her on-air career on the BBC News Channel before becoming a familiar face on BBC One. Since 2010, she has served as the main weather presenter on BBC Breakfast, earning widespread respect for her professionalism, warmth, and consistency.
Sad news Carol is leaving the BBC .. even on them grim days with torrential rain gale force winds plus snow over
the higher ground she always still
managed to bring us some sunshine .. pic.twitter.com/lro7Bu2fU5
— Martha (@MGonigle) January 27, 2026Her departure marks the end of an era for the programme and for viewers who have followed her forecasts for more than a decade. Kirkwood leaves behind a legacy built on trust, clarity, and connection with audiences. Her calm presence during major weather events and everyday forecasts helped make her a household name across the UK.
As she steps away from broadcasting, viewers and colleagues alike continue to celebrate her contribution to British television.
