Kay Burley confirmed she is retiring from Sky News after 36 years. (Image: Sky News)
has announced she is retiring from after 36 years with the channel. She made the announcement on Wednesday morning , which she hosted for more than four years.
Closing her show, the presenter, 64, said: “From a standing start to one of the most recognised and valued brands in global news, it’s been an honour and privilege to work with some of the best and hardest working teams in the business.
“News by its very nature is often devastating and together we’ve covered so many life-changing events – from the tragic death of Diana, the shocking terror attack of 9/11; the Asian Tsunami; the Concorde air disaster.
“But we’ve also enjoyed some wonderful high notes too, haven’t we – the thrill of London winning the chance to host the 2012 Olympics; a plethora of royal weddings; jubilees and who can forget days and days and DAYS waiting for royal babies to arrive at the Lindo Wing.
“After over a million minutes of live TV news, more than anyone else in the world, it’s time for me to indulge in some of my other passions, including my love for travel.
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Kay Burley covered 12 general elections throughout her career. (Image: Getty)
“So, after covering 12 separate general elections, including Sir ‘s victory last year, I am retiring from Sky News, let politicians of every party just rejoice at that news.
“Thank you for waking up and tuning in every morning. I can’t tell you how much I have appreciated your support over the last three and a half decades – you’re awesome.
“I will post more on my social media and hope to see you around. Please keep in touch.”
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Kay Burley said it was time to ‘indulge in my other passions’. (Image: Getty)
David Rhodes, Sky News Executive Chairman, shared a note with staff following Kay’s announcement.
He said: “Talking with Kay about her plans, we all felt it was more fitting that Kay break this story herself. She’s done that now in her own words, and we’ll be sharing the clip on social channels today.
“A founding member of Sky News, Kay helped build our proposition from its launch in 1989. She has been a constant presence on our screens over the course of our 36 years…
“With millions of minutes presenting live rolling news, Kay’s legacy in television journalism is unmatched, as is her commitment to Sky’s legacy. And I’m sure some MPs in Westminster will sleep easy knowing they won’t face her indomitable questioning in the mornings”.
Kay Burley has been inundated with support after her announcment. (Image: Getty)
He confirmed that the Breakfast show will continue with the other current presenters and the Friday-Sunday team, which includes Gareth Barlow and political correspondent Mhari Aurora.
Speaking about Kay, former Sky News journalist Adam Boulton said on X: “There are no other women of her background who have had such an impact on British news and current affairs..
“Kay is unique, there are no other women of her background who have had such an impact on British news and current affairs. We have been friends and colleagues for forty years. Onward Kay I know it’s going to be exciting!”
Former Newsnight producer Sam McAlister said she was “devastated” by the “absolute icon’s” retirement. She wrote on X: “Genuinely devastated to hear about KayBurley leaving SkyNews. An absolute icon. Smart as hell, sharp as they come, bloody amazing company.
“Always a total inspiration to me as a single parent and woman from a different background. A sad day.”