Kirsty Wark has revealed she is stepping down from Newsnight, the BBC has revealed.
The TV favourite, 68, has been the face of the flagship show for more than two decades – however she will be walking away as its lead presenter after the next election.
Kirsty said in a statement: “Today I am celebrating 30 years presenting Newsnight. It is an enormous privilege to be involved in such a rigorous, creative programme with a wonderful, talented, bunch of colleagues – actually many bunches over the years, led, most recently by Esme Wren followed by Stewart Maclean.
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“There’s not a day when I don’t look forward to coming to the office, and every day I learn something from the team about all manner of things, from aspects of American foreign policy to how to make a great mojito.”
(Image: BBC)
She added: “Last year I spoke to both to the Director General Tim Davie and to Stewart and signalled my desire to end my three decade run on the show after the next election, and that’s the plan. When the time comes it will be a massive wrench.”
Going forward, Kirsty revealed to fans exciting times are ahead despite her exit. She insisted she is not leaving the BBC as she will still front other programmes for the broadcaster, but she also wants finish her third novel.
(Image: BBC/Jeff Overs)
She said: “However, I’ll be leaving Newsnight but not the BBC. I’ll still be presenting The Reunion and Start the Week on Radio 4, TV documentaries too as well as finishing, finally, my third novel. There are exciting times ahead,” she added.
BBC Director-General Tim Davie also said: “Generations of Newsnight viewers have benefitted from Kirsty’s authority, her razor-sharp insight and her journalistic flair. She sets the standard for engaging yet authoritative presenting.
(Image: WIREIMAGE)
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“I speak on behalf of the whole BBC when I thank her for the past 30 years. I’m delighted the BBC is not losing Kirsty altogether when she steps back from Newsnight and look forward to seeing and hearing her beyond the busy political year ahead.”
Kirsty first joined in 1993 and became Newsnight’s longest-serving presenter. During her time on the show, she has interviewed many prominent public figures. She’s covered eight Prime Ministers and conducted the only interview with Lord Macpherson following his inquiry into the murder of Stephen Lawrence.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
