10 Photos of Carol Kirkwood: BBC Weather Legend Quits After 25 years As Fans Reel From Shock Exit

For more than a quarter of a century, Carol Kirkwood has been the face of British mornings, bringing sunshine, storms and occasional snow to millions of viewers. Her warmth and clarity turned weather bulletins into moments of reassurance, making her a fixture of countless mornings across the UK.

Now, after 28 years of tireless service, the beloved BBC Breakfast weather presenter has announced she will leave the corporation this April. The news left fans stunned and emotional, and marks the close of a chapter in British broadcasting history.

From The Weather Channel to BBC Breakfast

Carol Kirkwood began her meteorological journey at The Weather Channel before honing her craft at the Met Office and the BBC Weather Centre, which she joined in April 1998. Initially broadcasting on the BBC News channel, she quickly became a familiar presence on BBC One and other BBC platforms. By 2010, she had secured her position as lead weather presenter on BBC Breakfast, a role that would make her a household name.

In her announcement, Kirkwood said: 'This has not been an easy decision to make, but it feels like the right moment to step away. I will carry with me the most wonderful memories.' Her warmth, professionalism and ability to make complex forecasts understandable endeared her to viewers across the UK.

Fans And Colleagues React To Her Exit

Kirkwood's departure has sparked an outpouring of messages from fans and colleagues alike. Social media was flooded with tributes, remembering her for her calm presence during breaking weather and her ability to make even dreary Mondays feel bright.

'Being part of your mornings has been a joy,' she said, reflecting on her connection with the audience. '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.'

Her colleagues praised her as not only a consummate professional but a friend who brought energy and kindness to the newsroom every day.

Beyond The Forecast: A Multifaceted Career

While her weather presentations are what she is best known for, Kirkwood's career extends well beyond the studio. She competed on Strictly Come Dancing in 2015, impressing viewers by reaching week eight, and has reported for The One Show. Additionally, she is a Sunday Times bestselling author, penning several romance novels including Under a Greek Moon, The Hotel on the Riviera and Secrets of the Villa Amore. A new novel, Meet Me At Sunset, is scheduled for release later this year.

Kirkwood has always emphasised the joy of engaging with her audience, both through broadcasting and writing, making her exit a significant moment not just for the BBC but for the wider media landscape.

Life Beyond BBC Breakfast

Born Carol MacKellaig on May 29, 1962, in Morar, Inverness-shire, Scotland, Kirkwood's journey to national fame has been marked by determination and resilience. She currently resides in Bray, Berkshire, with her husband Steve Randall, a police officer she married in December 2023 at Cliveden House. Kirkwood has expressed a desire to devote more time to family, travel and her ongoing writing career, signalling that while she may leave the BBC, her public presence is far from over.

As viewers prepare to say goodbye, Kirkwood leaves behind a legacy of reliability, warmth and professionalism. Her departure marks the end of an era in British broadcasting, one defined by dedication, charm and a genuine love for the craft of weather presenting. Fans will undoubtedly miss her familiar face on BBC Breakfast, but her influence will be felt for years to come.