Kay Burley retiring from Sky News after 36 years as she announces it live on air

Kay Burley has announced she is retiring from Sky News after 36 years.

The broadcaster, 64, has already finished her final show on the Sky News Breakfast programme. She has covered countless big news stories – and also been the subject of laughter after that "sadness in his eyes" comment.

Kay was rumoured to be ready to quit her breakfast show in December. But in a message to viewers, Kay today announced her retirement from the network.

She said: "From a standing start to one of the most recognised and valued brands in global news, its been an honour and 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 - from the tragic death of Diana, the shocking terror attack of 9/11; the Asian Tsunami; the Concorde air disaster.

"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.

"But after over a million minutes of live TV news - more than anyone else in the world - its time for me to indulge in some of my other passions - including my love for travel.

"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!

"Thank you for waking up and tuning in every morning. 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."

Kay had been part of Sky News since its launch in 1989. Before then, she worked for BBC local radio and Tyne Tees Television, before joining TV-am.

She joined Sky in 1988 after being recruited by Andrew Neil, and released her own documentary The Satellite Revolution. After that, she joined Sky News for its launch.

During her career, Kay has done a number of other shows, including competing on Dancing On Ice and Celebrity Hunted. She also fronted The Kay Burley Show on Sky News in September 2018 before landing the breakfast slot in 2019.

However it wasn't all glory, as she was suspended by Sky in December 2020 for six months after breaching Covid lockdown restrictions. She returned in June 2021, saying: "It's great to be back."