BBC Breakfast host Naga Munchetty faces accusations of making a ‘nasty’ comment toward weather presenter Carol Kirkwood during her final appearance on the program after nearly 30 years with the broadcaster.

Carol Kirkwood, 63, bid farewell on the red sofa on April 1. Following a heartfelt video tribute to the popular presenter, Munchetty remarked, ‘I’m just waiting for the countdown for you to go!’ She later presented Kirkwood with a framed Mr Men picture, adding, ‘So what do we call you? Not off-air! On-air. Little Miss Sunshine, maybe?’

Viewer Reactions

Social media users on X ed outrage, labeling the comments as mean-spirited. One viewer posted: ‘Where was Naga Munchetty’s tribute to Carol Kirkwood amongst all the others on her last day presenting the weather on @BBCBreakfast?’ Another commented: ‘That came over as really nasty from Naga to Carole. Horrible to watch.’

Insider Perspectives

Sources close to the production describe Munchetty’s remarks as microaggressions and bullying, noting, ‘Naga thinks she’s funny, but she’s very nasty.’

BBC Response

A BBC spokesperson stated: ‘Naga and Carol have been very close personal friends for many years, as well as being very good colleagues as part of the BBC Breakfast Team. Everyone involved in Carol Kirkwood’s last programme for Breakfast on 1 April was there to pay tribute to Carol’s long service for the BBC, and they all did so fittingly.’

Ongoing Investigations

Munchetty remains under a bullying probe that has lasted five months. Complaints span three years, including an incident where she reportedly criticized an intern for spreading Marmite on her toast incorrectly. She faced review in August. Co-host Charlie Stayt underwent a similar review last year over allegations of rudeness and bullying amid reports of a toxic set environment.

BBC Breakfast airs daily on BBC One from 6am.