Dan Walker is set to leave BBC Breakfast to take up a new role on a rival channel. The presenter joined the BBC One's early morning news programme back in 2016.
His exit comes seven months after former co-host Louise Minchin spent her last day hosting the programme, 20 years after first joining.
Dan, who took part in Strictly Come Dancing last year, will leave the famous sofa after six years and go on to front Channel 5’s revamped 5 News. He revealed the news on Monday (April 4) and said "it’s been a massive decision" for him to leave his job at the BBC for a new role.
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He will replace Sian Williams to present 5 News, after Williams announced she was stepping down earlier this month.
The former Football Focus host said in a video statement: "I can’t wait to get stuck into the daily news show, but I am also excited about making some great new TV for Channel 5. I love their ideas and creativity and it’s rare to get an opportunity like this where paths and ambitions meet. The chance to do something different was too good to turn down."
Dan shared the video to his Twitter account in which he revealed he'll be leaving the BBC where he added that he'd be leaving the BBC "in the next few weeks".
"I’m really excited but this has also been a massive decision for me because I love Breakfast, I love working alongside Sally (Nugent) and I love the team there. But Channel 5 came with big ambitions, big plans and I don’t think opportunities like this come around very often and I can't wait.
"I've also had the incredible privilege of working on some iconic programmes over the last few years, both at the BBC and elsewhere, and what I love about his deal is that I not only get to present the news, but I get to host a range of new programmes across the channel."
Dan ended his message: "And what an honour to step into the shoes of Sian Williams. I know how popular she is with both the team and also the audience, so all I can say is I will do my best to maintain her incredibly high standards. Thank you for watching and I’ll see you soon on a TV screen somewhere."
Channel 5 also announced the news on its own Twitter page, writing: "Some news to share with you all from us at @5_News," alongside Dan's video message. "@mrdanwalker will be bringing you the news at 5pm every day from now on. And he's got something to tell you all - watch his video down below."
Dan broadcaster has hosted the morning show on BBC One since 2016. He had previously fronted Breakfast with Louise, who departed in September 2021, and she was replaced by Sally Nugent, whose appointment was announced the following month.
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