Tributes Flood in for Kirsty Wark After Her Final BBC Newsnight Presentation

Kirsty Wark is receiving widespread accolades after her final presentation on BBC’s Newsnight, marking the end of a remarkable 30-year tenure.

Wark, who last October confirmed her intention to leave after the approaching election, bid farewell on Friday, 12 July. At 69, she departs as the longest-serving presenter in the history of the BBC Two current affairs program.

During her emotional final broadcast, Wark was visibly moved, wiping away tears. Newsnight commemorated her departure with a special montage highlighting her journey since joining in 1993, mixing footage of her interviewing world leaders with some of the lighter moments from her distinguished career.

The tribute ended with heartfelt messages from prominent figures such as Tony Blair, Nicola Sturgeon, Gordon Brown, and Lord David Cameron. BBC colleagues Emily Maitlis and Victoria Derbyshire, along with Wark’s own children, added personal notes of appreciation.

Renowned TV chef Nigella Lawson also joined the chorus of praise on social media, writing, “What a career! A really touching tribute here” on X/Twitter.

Former Prime Minister Tony Blair lauded Wark as “tough but fair and always exceptionally smart.” He wished her well and expressed confidence that she would continue to accomplish great things.

Lord Cameron, reflecting on his own political journey, humorously remarked, “Kirsty, many congratulations on over three decades of presenting Newsnight. You have questioned us, quizzed us, held us to account, and often terrified us. But a great record, many congratulations. Now you’re retiring, but you can always retire after a long career and then make a comeback. Best wishes, well done with everything.”

Nicola Sturgeon, the former leader of the SNP, said, “To say you are a broadcasting titan, obviously across the UK, but particularly here in Scotland, would be an understatement. It’s hard to imagine that landscape without you. I had a very first interview experience with you when I was just 17 or 18 years old. I was in awe of you then, and it’s fair to say that hasn’t really changed.”

Emily Maitlis, honoring Wark’s legacy, referred to her as the “Queen of Newsnight,” adding, “We love you and we wish you well.”

BBC Radio 4 presenter Kavita Puri took to social media to call Wark “a broadcasting legend and a much beloved colleague and friend to so many of us at Newsnight.”

Despite her departure from Newsnight, Wark will continue her association with the BBC. She will present other shows including The Reunion and Start The Week on Radio 4, alongside various documentaries.

Source: Independent