A MUCH-LOVED BBC Breakfast anchor has announced his departure from the programme live on-air.
The popular host, who was presenting Sunday’s episode with Luxmy Gopal, told how it would be his last time fronting the daily news show.
Ben Boulos became emotional and told how it had been a “pleasure and a privilege” to front BBC Breakfast as he let slip his departure to viewers.
He told how he was heading off to another job before signing off for the final time.
Ben left it until the final minutes of Sunday’s episode, which wrapped on BBC Two, before disclosing his news.
He said: “Just before we finish, just to share a bit of news about me.
beebs back
BBC Breakfast star makes shock return – after QUITTING sofa earlier this year
CEREAL OFFENDER
Saka reveals ‘unreal’ breakfast as BBC host says ‘not sure about that’
“It’s my last appearance on Breakfast for the time being, I am off to take a new job elsewhere.
“But I will miss this place, I will miss this programme a lot”.
Luxmy smiled in support as he became emotional, and reached out to stroke his shoulder.
Ben continued: “I have had the most wonderful time on Breakfast.
“I just want to say thank you to the brilliant teams that we work with and above all thank you to everyone watching at home for letting me be a part of your mornings.
“It has been a real pleasure and a privilege.”
He wrapped with the words: ‘Breakfast will be back tomorrow morning, Jon and Sally here from 6am.”
Luxmy then added: “But for now, from Ben for the final time, and from me – enjoy the rest of your day and have a lovely Sunday afternoon, whatever you are up to.
“And goodbye Ben!
“Take care, goodbye.”
Charlie Stayt’s life and career
Amid being hit by fresh bankruptcy woes, Charlie has had a lengthy career as a BBC broadcaster and journalist. Here are just a few of the star’s highlights.