Carol Kirkwood Confesses to 'Denial' During Emotional BBC Breakfast Farewell
Long-serving BBC Breakfast weather presenter Carol Kirkwood has openly admitted she is "in denial" about her exit from the programme, during an emotional final broadcast that marked the end of her nearly three-decade tenure. The 63-year-old star, who is stepping down from her role after 28 years, was surprised with a heartfelt tribute montage from colleagues and celebrities on her last day.
Surprise Tributes and Nostalgic Moments
Presenters Jon Kay and Sally Nugent orchestrated a touching surprise for Kirkwood, airing a five-minute montage of messages and throwback clips. The compilation featured well-wishes from notable figures such as Judy Murray, Bryan Adams, and Clare Balding, alongside nostalgic moments from Kirkwood's time on the show. Fans and staff alike shared their favourite memories, with one viewer labelling her the nation's "comfort blanket" for brightening their days.
Kirkwood was visibly moved by the tribute, laughing and smiling as she watched the footage. She expressed deep gratitude for her time at the BBC, gushing about her colleagues and the audience. "Everybody I have met at home has been so special," she said. "They are the best audience."
Joking About Returning and Early Mornings
In a light-hearted moment, Kirkwood joked with Kay and Nugent that she might "rock up on Monday" as if nothing had changed, highlighting her difficulty in accepting the departure. When asked if she was ready to stop her pre-3am alarm clock routine, she replied, "No, I think I'm in denial. I expect I'll rock up on Monday."
She reflected on her early mornings, stating, "For 28 years, I've been getting up at quarter to three. But you know, I'm privileged. I do a fabulous job. I'm not running into burning buildings and saving lives." However, she acknowledged the adjustment ahead, saying, "It's going to be weird not speaking to our lovely audience, not seeing everyone, not seeing the crew, both in front and behind the camera. It's going to be different, and I'm going to miss everyone horribly."
Reasons for Departure and Future Plans
Kirkwood announced her decision to leave earlier this year, citing a desire to spend more quality time with her husband, Steve. She explained, "I'm going to be spending more time with Steve, my gorgeous husband. We have been married a couple of years ago, but we are like ships passing in the night, so I'm so looking forward to doing that."
She also mentioned plans to travel, pursue her writing projects, and avoid working "with my Zimmer frame when I can't reach the northern Isles anymore." During her announcement, she became emotional, telling Kay and Nugent, "I didn't want to get emotional, but you two are my friends, and I love you dearly so I am sorry I did."
Colleagues and Public Reaction
Kay and Nugent revealed they had received thousands of touching messages from the public in support of Kirkwood. Nugent thanked her, saying, "I think we forget sometimes, because we're so lucky to have you here with us, we forget all the people at home who are your friends too." When Kirkwood asked for a copy of the messages, Kay humorously noted, "I don't think there are enough trees on the planet."
Kirkwood also shared an amusing anecdote about her voice helping to put babies to sleep over the years, underscoring her connection with viewers. Her career at the BBC began as a production secretary before she became a production assistant and eventually a main weather presenter on BBC Breakfast in 2010.
The farewell show highlighted Kirkwood's significant impact on the programme and its audience, marking the end of an era for one of British television's most beloved weather presenters.
