Kay Burley, a 64-year-old broadcaster, has announced her retirement from Sky News after 36 years of service. The shocking news was revealed during her final broadcast on Sky News Breakfast, where she expressed her gratitude to the team and the audience for their support over the years.
Burley has been a prominent figure in British journalism, covering significant events such as the death of Princess Diana, the 9/11 attacks, and the Asian Tsunami. She has also presented several general elections, including Sir Keir Starmer’s victory last year.
In a heartfelt speech, Burley reflected on her remarkable career, saying, “It’s been an honour and a 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.” She also expressed her excitement to pursue other passions, including travel, and joked that politicians would rejoice at her departure.
David Rhodes, Sky News Executive Chairman, praised Burley’s dedication and contributions to the channel, saying, “Kay has been a constant presence on our screens over the course of our 36 years. We thank her for her huge contribution to Sky, to the art of the interview, and to British journalism.”
Burley’s career has not been without controversy. She has faced criticism for her handling of certain stories, including a 2008 incident where she clashed with a photographer outside Uxbridge Magistrates Court. She has also been accused of bullying and has faced backlash for her comments on live television.
Despite the challenges, Burley has remained a popular figure in British journalism. She has been a perennial TV presence for over three decades and has appeared on various shows, including Dancing on Ice and The Celebrity Chase.
In her personal life, Burley has been married twice and has one son, Alexander Kutner, 31. She has also been open about her family’s struggles with cancer, having lost her mother and grandmother to the disease. Her younger sister, Jacqueline, was diagnosed with cancer in recent years but has since been given the all-clear.
As Burley begins her new chapter, she has received tributes from fellow journalists and media personalities. Sam McAlister, a former BBC producer, called her “an absolute icon… smart as hell, sharp as they come.”
Conclusion:
Kay Burley’s retirement marks the end of an era in British journalism. Her dedication, passion, and professionalism have made her a household name, and her contributions to Sky News will be remembered for years to come.
FAQs:
Q: How long has Kay Burley been working at Sky News?
A: Kay Burley has been working at Sky News for 36 years.
Q: What significant events has Kay Burley covered during her career?
A: Kay Burley has covered significant events such as the death of Princess Diana, the 9/11 attacks, and the Asian Tsunami.
Q: Why is Kay Burley retiring from Sky News?
A: Kay Burley is retiring from Sky News to pursue other passions, including travel.
Q: What has been the reaction to Kay Burley’s retirement?
A: Kay Burley’s retirement has been met with tributes and well-wishes from fellow journalists and media personalities.
Q: Has Kay Burley faced any controversy during her career?
A: Yes, Kay Burley has faced criticism for her handling of certain stories and has been accused of bullying.