Veteran broadcaster Kay Burley announced her retirement from Sky News on Wednesday morning, bringing an end to her remarkable 36-year tenure with the network. The announcement came during the closing moments of her final Sky News Breakfast show.
Burley, 64, who joined Sky News at its launch in 1989, has been a prominent figure in British broadcast journalism, covering major historical events including Princess Diana's death, the 9/11 terrorist attacks, and the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake.
During her farewell address, Burley reflected on her extensive career, noting she had broadcast "over a million minutes of live TV news - more than anyone else in the world." She covered 12 general elections and numerous royal events, from weddings to the anticipation of royal births outside the Lindo Wing.
"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 during her final broadcast.
David Rhodes, executive chairman of Sky News, praised Burley's unmatched legacy in television journalism. TV producer Sam McAlister described her as "an absolute icon" who was "smart as hell, sharp as they come."
Burley began her journalism career at age 17, working with BBC local radio, Tyne Tees Television, and TV-am before joining Sky News. In 2018, she launched The Kay Burley Show, which later moved to the breakfast slot.
The veteran presenter plans to pursue other interests, particularly her passion for travel. In her parting words to viewers, she expressed gratitude for their support throughout her three-and-a-half decades of broadcasting, adding playfully that politicians "of every party" might rejoice at news of her retirement.