Sky News presenter Kay Burley has confirmed she is quitting the broadcaster after 36 years, revealing the reason why.
The star, who first joined the news programme upon its launch in 1989, revealed on air today that she had decided to leave as she wants to "indulge in some of [her] other passions".
Burley said it had "been an honour and privilege to work with some of the best and hardest working teams in the business", before reflecting on "life-changing events" from the last few decades.
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"News by its very nature is often devastating and together we've covered so many life-changing events – from the tragic death of Diana, the shocking terror attack of 9/11, the Asian Tsunami, the Concorde air disaster," Burley said.
"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.
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"But after over a million minutes of live TV news – more than anyone else in the world – it's time for me to indulge in some of my other passions, including my love for travel.
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"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!"
The presenter thanked fans "for waking up and tuning in every morning", adding: "I can't tell you how much I have appreciated your support over the last three and a half decades. You're awesome.
"I will post more on my social media and hope to see you around. Please keep in touch."
Sky News executive chairman David Rhodes said Burley's "legacy in television journalism is unmatched", and is "sure some MPs in Westminster will sleep easy knowing they won't face her indomitable questioning in the mornings".
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"We thank Kay for her huge contribution to Sky, to the art of the interview and to British journalism. And we wish her the best of luck," he added.
Before Sky News, Burley started her career in BBC local radio and ITV's Tyne Tees Television as well as TV-am.
Over the years, she has also made appearances on shows such as The Wheel, The Weakest Link, Pointless Celebrities and Celebrity Hunted.
Sam is a freelance reporter and sub-editor who has a particular interest in movies, TV and music. After completing a journalism Masters at City University, London, Sam joined Digital Spy as a reporter, and has also freelanced for publications such as NME and Screen International. Sam, who also has a degree in Film, can wax lyrical about everything from Lord of the Rings to Love Is Blind, and is equally in his element crossing every 't' and dotting every 'i' as a sub-editor.
