Kay Burley has announced her retirement from Sky News after 36 years, marking the end of an extraordinary broadcasting career. The veteran journalist, who was part of the original team that launched the network in 1989, delivered an emotional farewell on her final Sky News Breakfast show, reflecting on decades of covering the world’s biggest stories.
“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,” Burley said as she closed her final broadcast. She recalled the defining moments of her career, from reporting on the tragic death of Princess Diana and the 9/11 attacks to covering the Asian Tsunami and the Concorde disaster. But she also cherished the more uplifting stories, said, “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 delivering over a million minutes of live television—more than any other broadcaster in the world—Burley is now ready for a new chapter. “It’s time for me to indulge in some of my other passions – including my love for travel,” she said. Reflecting on her long career in political journalism, she added, “After covering 12 separate general elections – including Sir Keir Starmer’s victory last year – I am retiring from Sky News. Let politicians of every party just rejoice at that news!”
David Rhodes, executive chairman of Sky News, praised her remarkable career, stating, “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.”
The announcement triggered an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and fellow journalists. Former Sky News editor-at-large Adam Boulton called Burley “unique,” adding, “There are no other women of her background who have had such an impact on British news and current affairs.” Sky News political editor Beth Rigby described her as a “trailblazer and inspiration to a whole generation of women,” while veteran journalist Simon McCoy remarked, “That’s how long she worked at Sky News!”
Business presenter Ian King called her achievements impossible to overstate, saying, “No one in the world has clocked up as many hours of live television. No doubt politicians will be glad she is leaving – her loyal viewers will not.” Meanwhile, Good Morning Britain’s Susanna Reid hailed Burley as “a fierce advocate for viewers, a powerful interviewer and a supporter of women in television.”
Tributes also came from outside the Sky News family. Former BBC Newsnight producer Sam McAlister expressed her sadness, calling Burley “an absolute icon,” and adding, “Smart as hell, sharp as they come, bloody amazing company.”
Burley has not revealed her exact plans for the future but assured fans she will remain active. “I will post more on my social media and hope to see you around. Please keep in touch,” she told viewers.
About Author
Leave a Reply