Carol Kirkwood Bids Farewell to BBC Breakfast After 30 Years: A New Chapter with Husband Steve Randall
Carol Kirkwood, 63, has officially wrapped up her 30-year tenure on BBC Breakfast, delivering her final weather forecast this week. After three decades of early mornings and iconic broadcasts, Carol is stepping away from the spotlight to enjoy more “me time” with her husband, Steve Randall, 49.
Carol’s decision to retire follows years of dedication to her career, but now she’s ready for new adventures—namely, traveling around Europe with her husband, a police officer, as they embark on a long-awaited journey together.
A Heartfelt Farewell
During her final on-screen moments, Carol expressed excitement for the future but admitted that saying goodbye to BBC Breakfast wasn’t easy. The beloved weather presenter shared, “I’m really going to miss you… I owe you all so much.” She went on to reflect on the memories and friendships she’s made over the years, saying, “This job has given me so much more than a career, it’s given me memories, I’ll carry them forever.”
Fans of Carol can still look forward to her last few planned broadcasts, including a special 80th birthday celebration for Sounds of the 70’s recorded before her departure. Although Carol is uncertain of when she’ll return to the airwaves, she promised to come back “stronger” when the time is right.
A Life of Adventure Awaits
As Carol gears up for retirement, she’s already begun sharing glimpses of her new, more relaxed life on social media. “No more 2:45 a.m. alarms,” Carol joked, as she prepares for a future filled with travel, relaxation, and more time with Steve.
The couple, who married in December 2023, has big plans, and Carol is particularly excited to leave behind the pressures of broadcasting for a slower, more fulfilling pace of life. “We’re really looking forward to watching Matt in the morning say the weather is going to be rubbish, and then we’ll head off somewhere,” Steve added, echoing the sense of freedom that now awaits them.
The Legacy of Carol Kirkwood
Carol’s departure marks the end of an era for BBC Breakfast. Since joining the BBC Weather Centre in 1998, she’s become a household name, known not just for her accurate forecasts, but for her radiant personality and enduring charm. Carol’s career highlights include covering major events like Wimbledon, the Chelsea Flower Show, and Royal Ascot. Her sunny disposition even saw her laugh off on-air blunders, including being dragged by dogs and accidentally calling dog-walkers “doggers” in Greenwich Park.
Her career began as a production assistant at BBC Breakfast, but after a brief stint in consultancy, Carol found her true calling as a meteorologist. She also appeared on Strictly Come Dancing in 2015, where she reached week eight alongside dance partner Pasha Kovalev.
While her divorce from property developer Jimmy Kirkwood in 2008 was a challenging time, Carol later shared that the experience helped her find new courage in life. “I’m braver now,” she said, reflecting on how her divorce prompted her to embrace life’s adventures, including flying with the Red Arrows and jumping out of planes with the Red Devils.
As Carol embarks on her next chapter, she leaves behind a legacy of warmth, professionalism, and an unwavering connection with her fans.
Looking Ahead
With Carol’s departure, her fans will miss her vibrant energy on BBC Breakfast. But Carol is ready to embrace a future filled with new experiences, all while enjoying life with her beloved husband Steve.
