BBC Breakfast presenter Naga Munchetty is leaving the television show after 17 years to take over the BBC Radio 5 Live Breakfast program, the broadcaster announced on July 28, 2026.
Munchetty, 51, will co-host the flagship radio show five days a week starting January 2027 alongside a new partner yet to be named.
She joined BBC Breakfast in 2009 and became a main anchor in 2012, co-hosting with Charlie Stayt since 2014.
Munchetty replaces current radio hosts Rachel Burden and Rick Edwards, who are both stepping down from the morning slot in December.
Burden will move to host 5 Live's weekday mid-morning show from Monday to Wednesday after 15 years on the breakfast program.
Edwards will continue hosting the Saturday morning show Fighting Talk and contribute to sports and news coverage.
Munchetty's Move to Radio
Munchetty said she is thrilled to join 5 Live Breakfast in January, citing live news and audience connection as her passions.
She reflected on her 17-year tenure at BBC Breakfast, calling it a privilege to work with talented journalists who became friends.
Munchetty noted that the radio role requires her complete focus, as she has been presenting 5 Live's mid-morning slot since 2021.
She expressed excitement about building on her relationship with 5 Live listeners in the breakfast slot.
Until her departure, Munchetty will continue presenting both BBC Breakfast and her current radio show, describing it as business as usual.
Reactions from Colleagues and Executives
Rachel Burden said after 15 years hosting 5 Live Breakfast, she decided it was time for a change and looks forward to launching her new show.
Rick Edwards joked that his five-year stint looks inconsequential next to Burden's 15-year marathon, but said he will miss the audience and team.
He also looks forward to not waking up at 3:45am and vaping without fear.
Heidi Dawson, Controller of BBC Radio 5 Live, called Munchetty one of the UK's most accomplished broadcasters and welcomed her to the breakfast show.
Dawson praised Burden's wit and intelligence, and confirmed Edwards will remain central to 5 Live's sports and news output.
John McAndrew, Director of Live and Daily News at the BBC, said Munchetty will be missed by millions of viewers and wished her luck at 5 Live.
On BBC Breakfast, colleagues Jon Kay and Sally Nugent shared the news with viewers, noting Munchetty will stay until early 2027.
Nugent joked about how co-host Charlie Stayt will adapt, while Kay said the team will give Munchetty a proper farewell later this year.
