Veteran Sky News presenter Kay Burley has announced that she is retiring after 36 years, with immediate effect.
Kay Burley joined Sky News in 1989. She came from TV-AM, where she had progressed through the ranks. She advanced from a reporter to a presenter in the mid-eighties.
She has covered many world-changing events throughout her career. She was part of the team that reported on the death of Diana, Princess of Wales, for Sky News. She announced the news live on air shortly after 5 a.m. on Sunday, 31 August 1997.
Burley also reported on the September 11th attacks soon after the first tower was struck. In 2004, she led Sky News’s coverage from Sri Lanka after the Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami. In 2013, she covered the birth of Prince George.
Her career wasn’t without moments of controversy though. In December 2020, Burley acknowledged violating London’s tier 2 coronavirus rules while celebrating her 60th birthday. She reportedly gathered with up to nine people from outside her household. She ignored the 11pm curfew and socialised in two restaurants and her home. As a result of her actions, Burley was suspended from Sky News until June 2021. She was also removed from the shortlist for the Royal Television Society’s journalism awards.
Signing off her last show, Kay Burley said; “News by its very nature is often devastating and together we’ve covered so many life-changing events.
“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 more than 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.
“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.”
Reaction to the news has poured in on social media. Sky News’ former Political Editor and longtime colleague of Kay Burley, Adam Boulton said; “The one and only Kay Burley announces she is leaving Sky News.
“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!”
Sky News’ current Political Editor, Beth Rigby also added; “No one does live telly like Kay Burley. Our anchor woman for decades, Kay’s has been THE face of the Sky News for as long as I can remember. I grew up watching Kay, learnt a huge amount about from Kay when I joined Sky News and was lucky enough to do election night 2024 with her. She’s been a trailblazer & inspiration to a whole generation of women. You’re one of a kind”
Kay Burley’s legacy at Sky News is marked by her exceptional contributions to broadcast journalism. Her unique interviewing style has profoundly affected the network. Her commitment to important issues resonated deeply with its audience.
As Sky News navigates this new chapter, the lessons from Burley’s career will serve as valuable insights for future journalists. While her absence will be felt, her influence will continue to inspire many.
The future of Sky News remains uncertain, but Kay Burley’s legacy will undoubtedly endure.