BBC Breakfast viewers have been left stunned after Naga Munchetty announced she’s walking away from the show after 17 years. The veteran presenter has confirmed she’s leaving the iconic morning programme, ending one of the longest and most recognizable partnerships on the famous red sofa. In a surprise statement, Naga revealed why she decided now was the right time to move on—calling the opportunity ahead one she simply couldn’t refuse.

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Naga Munchetty quits BBC Breakfast after 17 years with bombshell statement

The veteran broadcaster announced a major career move following her exit.

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Naga Munchetty quits BBC Breakfast after 17 years at the helm (Image: BBC)

BBC Breakfast presenter Naga Munchetty has announced she is leaving the morning programme after 17 years at the helm. The TV star first joined the show back in 2009, and became one of the show’s main presenters in 2012, where she hosted the show alongside Charlie Stayt. But in December, she will bid farewell to the Salford studio to take up a new role as co-presenter of 5 Live Breakfast in 2027.

On Tuesday (July 28), the broadcaster announced that she is swapping the famous red sofa for the BBC Radio 5 Live studio. The 51-year-old presenter will replace former breakfast show hosts Rachel Burden and Rick Edwards, who will step down from the show in December.

Sharing the exciting news, Naga gushed: “I’m thrilled to be joining 5 Live Breakfast in January. Live news, great conversations and connecting with audiences are what I love most about broadcasting, and 5 Live does all of that brilliantly.”

Naga Munchetty's statement in full as she quits BBC Breakfast - Leeds Live

Addressing her departure from BBC Breakfast, she went on: “It has been a privilege to be part of the BBC Breakfast TV team for the past 17 years, working alongside an incredibly talented and hard-working group of journalists who are not only outstanding colleagues but also great friends.

“Presenting a flagship programme on 5 Live is an opportunity that was simply too good to pass up. It will take a huge amount of work and require 100% of my focus and energy, and I’m really looking forward to throwing myself into the role.

“Over the last five years, I’ve been privileged to build a relationship with 5 Live listeners on the mid-morning programme and help shine a light on the issues that matter most to them. I’m excited to build on that in the Breakfast slot and to start each day with our listeners every morning.

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