BBC weather presenter Carol Kirkwood, who recently announced she is leaving the BBC, is apparently planning some serious travelling with her husband Steve Randall and Mallorca appears to be top of the list. After having appeared on BBC Breakfast for the past 27 years, she is now dreaming of heading to Mallorca.
“We fell in love with Mallorca, which is where we went so I could research my fifth novel, Meet Me at Sunset, about a woman running away from a shattered love affair,” she explained to BBC colleagues on announcing her departure. “Steve and I also plan to escape and travel for some time when we retire, perhaps in a year or two. We’ll either travel in a camper van, or get in the car, cross over to France and just drive.”
Her departure, scheduled for April 2026, has prompted an outpouring of gratitude and nostalgia from colleagues, viewers, and industry leaders alike. Reflecting on her decision, Kirkwood admitted that it wasn’t made lightly. In a heartfelt statement, she said, “This hasn’t been an easy decision to make, but it feels like the right moment to step away. I’ll carry with me the most wonderful memories.”
She continued, “It’s been an absolute privilege to bring you the weather every day. My job is something I’ve never taken for granted and I’ve loved every minute!” According to BBC, Kirkwood expressed deep appreciation for her colleagues, saying, “From early starts and all manner of forecasts, I’ve shared it with incredible colleagues at BBC Breakfast, BBC Weather and programmes across the BBC. I’d like to thank them for their support and friendship which has meant the world.”
She also addressed her viewers directly: “And to those watching and listening at home – thank you for all the kindness you have shown me over the years, being part of your mornings has been a joy.”
Her career has been decorated with accolades. Kirkwood has been named Best TV Weather Presenter by the Television and Radio Industries Club an impressive nine times.
In 2015, while competing on the popular show Strictly Come Dancing, she was awarded an Honorary Fellowship from Princess Anne for “contributions to broadcasting” at Inverness College, part of the University of the Highlands and Islands. Her tenure on Strictly saw her reach week eight (or week seven, depending on the source) alongside professional partner Pasha Kovalev, charming audiences with her grace and determination even as she faced tough competition from other celebrities.