The newsreader is leaving BBC News after a career spanning almost 18 years. Simon McCoy has since announced plans to join up with veteran BBC interviewer Andrew Neil at GB News. Marking his final appearance on BBC News on Thursday, the presenter was clearly moved by the occasion. He admitted to “getting chocked up” after watching a highlight reel paying tribute to some of his most memorable interviews and clips.
Speaking following the tribute, Simon said: “Just watching that, yes, we cover the serious stuff but perhaps the most remarkable thing I have ever done is the annual D-Day commemorations at Arromanches and talking to veterans.
“Do you know we have a fantastic job, we meet some amazing people.”
Fighting back tears, he added: “Sorry, I’m getting choked up.
“Just watching that interview, you meet fabulous people.”
The popular newsreader built up a strong fanbase of BBC viewers as a result of his dry-humour, hilarious on-screen gaffs and famous sarcastic responses to royal baby news.
The news Simon was leaving BBC news broke on Twitter earlier this morning when he began retweeting messages from colleagues who had been paying tribute to the much-loved presenter.
He first reposted a tweet from his Floor Manager, Niall Jackson, who posted a series of photographs of them together with the caption: “If you think he’s a handful on-screen, imagine what he’s like off it? Only got to floor manage 4 years of his 17+ at @BBCNews so was nice to do his final week.
“Made the dreariest of heavy news days instantly more manageable. May the road rise up to meet you @BBCSimonMcCoy Sláinte.”
Meanwhile, GB News founder Andrew Neil announced the BBC host has joined his new venture.
Mr Neil wrote on Twitter: “Oh yes. Simon McCoy is joining GB News… another great hire!”
Director of News and Programmes, John McAndrew, said: “Simon’s journalistic integrity, warmth and personality is a perfect fit for what we’re doing at GB News.
“He’s a brilliant journalist with an exceptional ability to relate to people in an upbeat way so we’re keen to get him out from behind a desk and talking to people from all parts of the United Kingdom.”
