Carol Kirkwood has officially signed off from BBC Breakfast after an incredible 28 years as the beloved weather presenter. The 63-year-old broadcaster made her emotional farewell during this morning’s program, thanking viewers for their unwavering trust and support over nearly three decades on air.
As Carol signed off at the end of Wednesday’s show, she tearfully shared: “This is a forecast I’ve known for quite a while was coming, but that doesn’t make it any easier to present. After 28 years of tracking storms, chasing sunshine, and occasionally getting it completely wrong, I’m saying goodbye.”
Carol, who was joined by her husband Steve on the set for her final moments, reflected on the journey since she first stepped into the studio in 1997. “When I first walked into this studio, I could never have imagined the journey ahead,” she said. “Back then the graphics were simpler, the maps were a bit clunkier, and I had a lot less grey hair than this. But one thing has never changed, and that is the privilege and honor of being welcomed into your homes.”
Her farewell was met with heartfelt messages from friends and famous faces, including former BBC Wimbledon presenter Sue Barker, rock legend Bryan Adams, and Line of Duty actress Vicky McClure. “You were always so embarrassed when people wanted to stop you and say how wonderful you are,” Sue said in a tribute. “Well, I hope today you realize just how special you are and how loved you are, you’re one in a million, and I’m proud to call you a friend.”
Carol thanked her audience, expressing how much their loyalty meant to her over the years. “Thank you for trusting me, whether it was telling you about heatwaves or snow, from big national events to the everyday question: ‘Do I need to take a brolly?’” she said. “You’ve been the constant in all of this, and I’ve never taken that for granted.”
Her husband Steve, who surprised her with flowers during the final moments, couldn’t hide his pride and admiration. “I couldn’t be more proud of you. I’m the luckiest man in the world to be married to you,” he said. Carol, visibly emotional, replied, “I feel completely overwhelmed.”
In addition to her broadcasting career, Carol’s legacy includes competing in the seventh series of Strictly Come Dancing in 2015, where she was paired with dancer Pasha Kovalev. She was also a published author and has become a cherished household name over the years.
As she transitions into this next phase of her life, Carol shared her excitement for spending more time with Steve and perhaps, watching the weather instead of presenting it. “I don’t have a detailed forecast, but I do know this: it’s time for a new chapter,” she said. “Thank you for letting me be part of your lives.”
Carol Kirkwood’s farewell marks the end of an era for BBC Breakfast and British television, leaving behind a lasting impact that will be felt for years to come.
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/
