Naga Munchetty has faced backlash after making a series of comments towards Carol Kirkwood during the weather presenter's final day on BBC Breakfast. Carol, who announced her departure earlier this year after more than 25 years, appeared emotional as she thanked colleagues, singling out Munchetty with a surprised tone.
Munchetty replied: 'I’m just waiting for the countdown for you to go!' in a deadpan manner. She then presented Carol with an illustration by Adam Hargreaves, author of the Mr. Men books, depicting Carol as Little Miss Sunshine. When Carol said she would treasure it, Munchetty interjected: 'In the toilet?'
Later, Munchetty asked Carol if she had stolen anything from the BBC over the years and, when a celebratory cake was brought out, questioned: 'Are you going to break the habit of a lifetime and actually share the cake?' Carol responded: 'No, Naga, absolutely not – why would I do that?' Munchetty replied: 'Exactly. Why change it? We're only going to remember you one way.'
Viewers took to social media to criticise the exchange, with one writing: 'Naga didn’t do a pre recorded solo tribute like the other newsreaders did... Instead she tried her usual gotcha tactics to embarrass Carol.' Another said: 'Maybe Naga and Carol really didn't get on.'
Munchetty, 51, has faced previous allegations of bullying on set, which led to a formal investigation. Carol, visibly emotional when announcing her departure, said she wanted to spend more time with her husband Steve and to travel.
