BBC presenter quits after 24 years on air with emotional statement

A long-serving BBC presenter has announced she will be leaving her role after 24 years at the company and fans were quick to praise her online

A long-serving BBC presenter has quit (
Image: Getty Images)

A BBC presenter has quit her role after 24 years with the company.

Jenny Hill took to social media to reveal the news that she was stepping down from her job as foreign correspondent for the organisation. Sharing a statement on Twitter/X, Jenny said: “Personal update: I’m leaving the BBC today after 24 years. What a privilege it’s been to travel the world and tell people’s stories.

“Thanks to the many lovely colleagues whose talent, courage and friendship have made it such a pleasure.”

Among those commenting on her announcement was BBC News analysis editor Ros Atkins, who penned: “We’re going to miss you, Jenny. Best of luck.”

Jenny Hill is leaving her BBC role

Chief international correspondent Lyse Doucet also shared a touching note, saying: “Such a distinctive broadcaster and kind colleague. So sorry to see you go Jenny.”

A fan of the presenter shared: “Thank-you Jenny for all your hard work. Hope the next chapter is awesome x,” while another added: “The BBC will miss you @jennyhillBBC – you are a great journalist, much admired and liked by colleagues and the audience including those in Africa. It is a big loss to the organisation. Good luck in the future.”

After a number of regional posts, Jenny moved to national reporting in a morning slot. Speaking of her breakfast role, she opened up on the challenges she faced. “It’s a great team at Breakfast and while I don’t think I’ll ever get used to the early alarm calls, working here is always great fun.”

Her international career got under way in 2014 when she took on the role of the BBC’s Berlin correspondent. She has also covered wars recently, including in Ukraine and Israel’s fight with Hamas in the Middle East.

Her latest social media update has hinted she plans to stay in Germany following her decision to leave the BBC. While her handle still includes “BBC,” her strapline reads: “Former BBC Foreign Correspondent. Planning new adventures from Berlin.”

She is far from the only BBC reporter to be leaving a long-running role with the corporation. While Gary Lineker will no longer host Match Of The Day, Mishal Husain said an emotional goodbye on the Today programme earlier this week after 26 years.

She joined fellow co-presenters Nick Robinson and Justin Webb, as well as former Today hosts Sarah Montague and John Humphrys on the air and shared a few sentimental remarks about her time with the news outlet. She closed her heartfelt segment with a song that she felt best captured her emotions on her final day.