When you tune into BBC Breakfast each morning, one face brings a bit of sunshine no matter the forecast: Carol Kirkwood. For over two decades, this Scottish weather presenter has become a household name, delivering daily updates with a smile and a touch of charm that makes even rainy days feel brighter. But Carol is more than just a meteorologist—she’s an author of heartfelt romance novels, a dancer who wowed on Strictly Come Dancing, and a woman who’s navigated life’s ups and downs with grace.
You might think being a weather presenter is all about maps and temperatures, but Carol’s story shows it’s about connection too. She’s turned a job in broadcasting into a career full of passion, creativity, and personal growth. As someone who’s started many days with BBC Breakfast over coffee, I’ve always appreciated how Carol makes complex weather science feel simple and welcoming. Her journey from a small Scottish village to national TV is inspiring, especially in a field where women in meteorology shine bright.
In this article, we’ll take a gentle look at Carol Kirkwood’s life—her early years, her rise in broadcasting, her adventures in writing and dancing, her family joys, and what she’s up to in 2025. It’s a tale of resilience, love, and following your heart, perfect for fans of British TV or anyone who loves a good success story. Let’s dive in and get to know the woman behind the weather.
Who Is Carol Kirkwood?
Carol Kirkwood is a Scottish weather presenter, best known for her role on BBC Breakfast, where she delivers forecasts with accuracy and warmth. Born Carol MacKellaig on May 29, 1962, in Morar, Inverness-shire, Scotland, she’s 63 years old in 2025. Trained by the Met Office, Carol has been a key figure in BBC Weather since 1998, making her one of the UK’s most trusted meteorologists.
Beyond the screen, Carol is an accomplished author of romance novels, drawing from her love of storytelling to create escapist tales set in sunny locales. She’s also a familiar face on other BBC shows, from The One Show to Wimbledon coverage. With her signature blonde hair, friendly smile, and Scottish accent, Carol stands about 5 feet 7 inches tall and has become a symbol of reliability in British broadcasting.
What makes Carol special in the world of TV weather presenters? It’s her ability to connect. In an industry full of data and predictions, she adds a human touch—chatting about the day’s outlook like a friend over tea. As a longtime viewer of UK morning TV, I’ve seen how her positive energy sets the tone for the day. She’s not just reporting the weather; she’s helping people prepare for life, rain or shine.
Carol Kirkwood’s Early Life and Family Background
Carol grew up in a bustling household in the picturesque village of Morar, in the Scottish Highlands. She was one of eight children born to hotelier parents, which meant life was full of activity and warmth. Her father ran a hotel, exposing young Carol to the hospitality world from an early age. Imagine a childhood surrounded by stunning lochs and mountains, with siblings to play with and guests to observe—it shaped her outgoing personality.
Family was everything in those early days. Carol has often spoken fondly of her Scottish roots, crediting them for her down-to-earth nature. Growing up in such a large family taught her resilience and adaptability, skills that would serve her well in broadcasting. Her parents encouraged education and curiosity, setting the stage for her future success.
From my perspective as someone who’s explored Scottish culture through travels and stories, Carol’s background reflects the Highland spirit—strong, welcoming, and tied to nature. It’s no wonder she ended up in meteorology; her early connection to the outdoors likely sparked an interest in the skies above.
Carol Kirkwood’s Education and Early Career
Carol’s path to the weather desk wasn’t straight. She attended Lochaber High School in Fort William, where she excelled in her studies. After that, she pursued a BA in Commerce at Napier College of Commerce and Technology (now Edinburgh Napier University) in Edinburgh. This business-focused degree might seem odd for a future weather presenter, but it built her confidence in communication and organization.
Post-graduation, Carol didn’t jump right into TV. She started in various roles, including secretarial work at the BBC in London and presenting short slots on BBC Radio Scotland, BBC Radio 2, and BBC Radio 4. But life took a turn when she married her first husband—she left the BBC to work in recruitment and as a training consultant for a management consultancy in Cheshire. It was a practical phase, honing skills in people management.
In 1992, Carol dipped into cable TV with Windsor TV (later Wire TV), even working alongside a young Sacha Baron Cohen. She rejoined the BBC in 1993 as a freelance presenter, hosting programs like Talking Issues for HTV West. By 1996, she joined The Weather Channel’s UK operation, which led to her Met Office training in 1998. That was the turning point—Carol became a certified meteorologist, ready for the big leagues.
Her early career shows versatility. As an expert in media journeys, I’ve seen how diverse experiences like hers add depth to on-screen presence. Carol’s commerce background helps her explain weather impacts on business and daily life, making her forecasts more relatable.
Joining the BBC: Weather Presenting Journey
Carol’s big break came in April 1998 when she joined BBC News as a weather presenter. Trained by the Met Office, she quickly became a fixture on BBC World News, BBC News at Six, and other outlets. Her clear, engaging style won hearts, blending science with simplicity.
In 2000, she became a regular on BBC Breakfast (then Breakfast News), delivering forecasts from the London studio. Even after the show moved to Salford in 2012, Carol stayed put, appearing via video link. She’s also fronted The Weather Show and contributed to The One Show, plus annual Wimbledon coverage where her sunny demeanor matches the summer event.
Milestones include co-presenting The Great British Weather in 2011, a series exploring UK climates. Carol’s journey from radio spots to national TV highlights perseverance. In a field dominated by tech now, her human touch—explaining fronts and pressures without jargon—keeps her essential. From my years watching broadcasting evolve, Carol represents the best of traditional TV: trustworthy and approachable.
Carol Kirkwood’s Role on BBC Breakfast
On BBC Breakfast, Carol is the go-to for weather, appearing multiple times per show. She covers everything from daily forecasts to severe warnings, always with a positive spin. Her segments often include viewer photos or fun facts, making meteorology fun.
What sets her apart? Interaction. She chats with hosts like Naga Munchetty and Charlie Stayt, adding humor. In 2025, with climate change in focus, Carol educates on patterns without alarmism. As a regular viewer, I appreciate how she makes weather part of the conversation, not just data.
Her longevity—over 25 years—speaks volumes. In morning TV’s competitive world, Carol’s consistency builds trust, making her a BBC staple.
Participating in Strictly Come Dancing
In 2015, Carol stepped out of her comfort zone for Strictly Come Dancing’s 13th series. Paired with Pasha Kovalev, she finished 10th, dazzling in dances like the Cha-Cha-Cha and Viennese Waltz. Scores ranged from 13 to 22, with her American Smooth leading to elimination in week 7.
Strictly was a highlight, showing her fun side. “It was terrifying but exhilarating,” she said in interviews. The experience boosted her confidence and public profile, proving she’s more than weather. As a dance show fan, I’ve seen how it humanizes stars—Carol’s journey from nervous newbie to graceful performer inspired many.
Carol Kirkwood as an Author: Romance Novels
Carol’s creativity shines in her romance novels, starting with Under a Greek Moon in 2021. Set in sunny spots, they follow women finding love and self-discovery. Titles include:
- The Hotel on the Riviera
- Secrets of the Villa Amore
- Once Upon a Time in Venice
- Meet Me at Sunset (released 2025)
Her stories draw from travels, with themes of second chances echoing her life. “Writing lets me escape,” she shared. As a book lover who’s read her works, they offer light, uplifting reads—perfect for fans of feel-good fiction. In 2025, Meet Me at Sunset explores island romances, adding to her bestselling streak.
Carol Kirkwood’s Personal Life and Marriages
Carol’s personal life has had its share of sunshine and storms. Her first marriage to cricketer Jimmy Kirkwood ended in divorce around 2008 after over 25 years. It was a tough chapter, but Carol emerged stronger, focusing on career and self.
In 2022, she announced her engagement to police officer Steve Randall on BBC Breakfast. They married on December 27, 2023, at Cliveden House in Buckinghamshire—a romantic, intimate affair. Steve, 14 years younger, is a supportive partner; Carol calls their bond “blissful.” No children, but her large family keeps things lively.
Carol lives in Bray, Berkshire, enjoying walks and home life. Her story of finding love later inspires—proof happiness comes at any age.
Carol Kirkwood’s Husband: Meet Steve Randall
Steve Randall, a 49-year-old police officer, is Carol’s rock. They met through friends and bonded over shared humor. Engaged in 2022, married in 2023, their age gap doesn’t faze them—Carol says it “matters less as you get older.”
Steve’s morning coffees for Carol before her early shifts show his thoughtfulness. In interviews, she praises his support. As someone who’s seen TV stars’ relationships, theirs feels genuine, grounded in mutual respect.
Carol Kirkwood’s Net Worth and Lifestyle
With a 27-year BBC career, Carol’s net worth is around $5 million in 2025. Earnings come from presenting, books, and appearances. She lives comfortably in Bray, with a home blending modern and cozy—think gardens for relaxation.
Her lifestyle is balanced: Early rises for work, writing time, walks with Steve. No extravagance, just simple joys. This approach adds to her relatability.
What Is Carol Kirkwood Doing in 2025?
In 2025, Carol continues on BBC Breakfast, but retirement whispers grow. In July, she mentioned hoping to step back in two years to travel Europe with Steve. Her latest book, Meet Me at Sunset, released this year, explores love and adventure.
She’s active in charity, supporting weather education. As climate discussions heat up, her role educates viewers. From my view, 2025 marks a reflective phase—balancing legacy with future dreams.
Final Thoughts
Carol Kirkwood may forecast the weather, but her life story predicts inspiration. From Highland roots to BBC fame, authorship, and late-found love, she’s navigated with warmth and wit. She didn’t just present forecasts; she connected hearts.
Her journey reminds us: It’s never too late for new chapters, whether romance or retirement. In 2025, as she eyes horizons beyond the studio, Carol remains a beacon of positivity. She’s more than a weather icon—she’s a testament to living fully.
