Kay Burley retires from Sky News

Kay Burley has announced her retirement from Sky News after 36 years with the broadcaster.

Kay Burley, after months of speculation – which she denied on social media, is to depart Sky News after almost 40 years.

Closing her final Sky News Breakfast show, Burley reflected on her career, saying:

“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. But after over a million minutes of live TV news – more than anyone else in the world – its time for me to indulge in some of my other passions – including my love for travel.“

Sky News is launched in 1989

Sky News in 1990

Burley was part of the team which launched Sky News in 1989. She had previously been a presenter for TV-am’s Good Morning Britain and prior to that a reporter for ITV local offering Tyne Tees Television and their Northern Life news show. But it is with Sky that her longest on-screen stint has taken place, hosting several slots over the years, most recently the breakfast output, Monday to Thursday. She has covered major stories including the death of Diana, Princess of Wales. Her live coverage of 9/11 won Sky News a BAFTA award.

David Rhodes, executive chairman of Sky News:

“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. We thank Kay for her huge contribution to Sky, to the art of the interview and to British journalism. And we wish her the best of luck.”

Kay has hosted several slots over the years

Kay has been the host of Sky News Breakfast in recent times

Ending today’s programme she departed by saying:

“So, 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! 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.”

Kay was the lead presenter of the 2024 General Election coverage

Kay supporting Action for Children last year

The final show, Kay’s last sign off on Sky News