Carol Kirkwood, the beloved weather presenter who has been a familiar face on BBC Breakfast for 28 years, has finally revealed the real reason she chose to step away from the job she loved. In an emotional interview, the 64-year-old shared the personal conversations that led to her decision, the heartbreak she’s experienced along the way, and the exciting new chapter she’s about to start with her husband, Steve Randall.
The Decision to Retire: A Conversation About the Future
For Carol, the decision to retire was not a spur-of-the-moment one. It came after a serious discussion with her younger husband, Steve Randall, who had retired as a serving police officer at the age of 50. “We weren’t getting any younger, either of us, and especially me,” Carol reflected. “There were so many things we wanted to do, mostly travel. So, best to get on with it.”
While stepping away from a career she had devoted almost three decades to was difficult, Carol made the choice to prioritize her relationship. “I’ve so enjoyed my time at the BBC; I’d been working there for 28 years. I love my job. But in the end, I love my husband more,” she admitted. The pair now plans to travel and enjoy life together, while they’re still healthy and able to do so.
A Pivotal Moment: Loss and Reflection
Carol also revealed that the death of Steve’s elder sister, Jan, last year played a key role in helping her realize that life is fragile. “She was older than him but younger than me. It made us realize that old age isn’t guaranteed,” she said, a note of sorrow in her voice. This personal loss led her to reflect deeply on her own life and what she wanted for the future.
What She’ll Miss the Most: The People
Asked what she would miss most about her BBC Breakfast role, Carol immediately answered, “Oh, the people.” From her fellow presenters Sally Nugent, Jon Kay, and Naga Munchetty to the behind-the-scenes staff who had become friends over the years, Carol highlighted the importance of these relationships in her work life. “The people became like family,” she added fondly.
One of the toughest parts of her job, however, was the grueling schedule, which required waking up at 2:45 a.m. every day. “That’s not a natural sleep pattern,” Carol said, admitting that despite her disciplined approach to the job, she often felt the effects of permanent, mild jet lag. Now that she’s retired, she’s looking forward to a more relaxed routine where she can meet friends and family without the constraints of a punishing schedule.
A Heartfelt Goodbye to BBC Breakfast
On April 1, Carol marked her final day on BBC Breakfast, receiving tributes from colleagues like Sophie Raworth, Susanna Reid, and Paul Merton, as well as heartfelt messages from the public. Even Keir Starmer sent a message of thanks, praising her for being “a staple every morning with that sunny disposition.” For Carol, though, it was the emotional farewell from her colleagues that was the most difficult moment. “I was dry-eyed throughout, but the tearful bit was when I first mentioned it on television at the end of January,” she shared. “Sally and Jon called me over, and when I saw Sally’s eyes filling with tears, I immediately choked up.”
Carol’s retirement from BBC Breakfast has sparked an outpouring of love from both her colleagues and the public. “I received literally hundreds of emails and cards and letters and gifts from members of the public,” she said, clearly touched by the response.
A New Chapter: Traveling and Writing
Now that Carol is free from her early-morning routine, she plans to spend more time with Steve and embrace a new lifestyle focused on travel and relaxation. “We’re really looking forward to exploring the world,” she said, sharing that their first trip will be to Italy, a country she loves. “We did a cruise around the Caribbean last year, and it was fabulous. So I’d like to explore in greater detail.”
While Carol is excited about this new phase, she also has creative pursuits to look forward to. The multi-talented presenter has written five novels, and her next book, Meet Me At Sunset, is set for release in May. She plans to continue writing at least one novel a year, drawing inspiration from her travels and experiences. “I’ll continue to write a book a year until they stop asking,” she said with a smile.
Life After BBC: Looking Ahead
As Carol begins this exciting new chapter, she remains open to the idea of returning to television. While she’s not sure what the future holds, she’s not ruling out the possibility of TV appearances. “I hope so, but I’ll have to be asked,” she said, adding that she’s never watched Celebrity Traitors but would consider participating if the opportunity arose. “I’d love to take part in Race Across The World,” she said, envisioning herself in charge of the budget with Steve as the logistics mastermind.
Despite her fame, Carol is refreshingly humble. When asked about the challenges of being married to a famous weather presenter, Steve keeps everything in perspective. “He doesn’t think he’s got one, and nor do I,” she said. “If I’m ever stopped by a member of the public asking for a selfie, he’ll offer to take it. He’s his own man.”
Carol’s Legacy: A Career Well-Lived
Carol’s career has been full of memorable moments, from on-air bloopers to her sunny, positive outlook that brightened viewers’ mornings. Whether it was a dog relieving itself behind her during a broadcast or her hilarious exchange with Bill Turnbull about the “jugs of water,” Carol has shown time and again that she doesn’t take herself too seriously.
With the final chapter of her BBC Breakfast career now behind her, Carol is looking forward to spending more time with family and friends, traveling, and continuing her passion for writing. “I refuse to wallow in [life’s disappointments]. And just look at the privileged life I’ve been lucky enough to lead,” she said, her trademark optimism shining through.
Carol Kirkwood may no longer be presenting the weather on BBC Breakfast, but with her heart set on new adventures, the future is looking as sunny as ever.
