Dan Walker has shocked loyal viewers of BBC Breakfast, with the news that he is quitting the show to move to Channel 5, just months after long standing co-host Louise Minchin left.
On Louise's last day, Dan made an emotional speech to her, in which he said the probably 'would never be the same,' without her, adding he didn't know how he'd cope without her. And now Dan has confirmed that he will soon make an exit for his new job.
Channel 5 broke the news on social media, writing: "Some news to share with you all from us at @5_News @mrdanwalker will be bringing you the news at 5pm every day from now on." The statement was accompanied by a video which Dan said: "I'm really excited but this has also been a massive decision for me as I love BBC Breakfast, I love working alongside Sally (Nugent) and I love the team there.
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"But Channel 5 came with big ambitions, with big plans and I don't think opportunities like this come along very often and I can't wait."
Dan will step into the Channel 5 News job held by another former BBC anchor, Sian Williams. On replacing her, he said: "I know how popular she is with both the team and also the audience, so all I can say is I will do my very best to maintain her high standards."
BBC Breakfast viewers were left gutted by Dan's news, with one replying: "Gutted to hear you're leaving BBC Breakfast as love seeing you and Sally together. Wishing you all the very best with Ch5 though. Will definitely be tuning in. Good luck with it all...not that you'll need it."
Equally upset, another responded: "Best of luck Dan. Loved having you on Football Focus and BBC Breakfast, so this is a bit of a gut punch for me. Wishing all the best for your future endeavours!"
A third reacted: "Oh, I know I should (and do) say congratulations but I’m really sorry to see you leave BBC Breakfast," with Dan taking the time to reply and thank those who wished him well.