“After 30 years of waking up at 2:45am… she chose LOVE over her career” — Carol Kirkwood, 63, sets off on a road trip with her younger husband, 49, to travel around Europe after three decades on BBC Breakfast
After three decades of being one of the most recognisable faces on British television, Carol Kirkwood has officially signed off from BBC Breakfast — and she’s not looking back.
The beloved weather presenter, 63, delivered her final forecast this week, closing the chapter on a remarkable 30-year career that saw her become a staple in millions of households across the UK. But instead of slowing down, Carol is embracing a completely different kind of adventure — one that puts love, freedom and long-awaited “me time” at its heart.
Now, she plans to quite literally drive off into the sunset with her husband Steve Randall, 49, swapping early alarms for open roads and spontaneous getaways across Europe.

Speaking during her final moments on air, Carol shared her excitement about what lies ahead, revealing that travel is firmly at the top of their list. She said they have “lots of travels” planned, hinting at a future filled with exploration after years of putting her career first.
One thing she definitely won’t miss? That brutal 2:45am alarm. After decades of early starts, Carol is finally ready to reclaim her mornings — and her life.
Steve, clearly thrilled about the change, admitted that having Carol home more will be “the best ever,” joking that the first thing to go is the alarm clock.

The couple, who married in December 2023 at the stunning Cliveden House, have built a quiet life together in Windsor — and Carol has never been shy about how much Steve means to her. In a previous interview, she gushed that if he’s at home, she’s happy, describing him as tall, kind, funny and a true gentleman, even joking that she could “wax lyrical about Steve forever.”
Her emotional farewell was made even more special when Steve surprised her live on air with a bouquet of flowers, joined by heartfelt tributes from colleagues and famous faces including Sue Barker, Vicky McClure and Sir Chris Hoy.
Struggling to hold back tears, Carol admitted the reality of leaving hadn’t quite sunk in yet. She confessed she still felt like she might “rock up on Monday,” adding that it will be strange not speaking to viewers or seeing her beloved team every day.
Reflecting on her journey, she described the role as a privilege, thanking audiences for welcoming her into their homes through everything from heatwaves to snowstorms — and even the everyday question of whether to bring an umbrella.

She also made it clear that this decision wasn’t easy. Back in January, when she first announced her departure, she became visibly emotional, admitting she loved her job — but loved her husband more, and wanted to spend more time with him.
Her story is also one of resilience. After her divorce from first husband Jimmy Kirkwood, Carol revealed she found a new sense of confidence and bravery, embracing life in ways she never had before — from flying with the Red Arrows to skydiving.
Now, as she steps into this next chapter, Carol isn’t just leaving behind a job — she’s choosing a completely new way of living.
And for the first time in 30 years, she won’t be telling the nation what the weather looks like tomorrow… she’ll be out there enjoying it herself.


