BBC Breakfast weather presenter Carol Kirkwood has opened up on her personal life and admitted it’s “sad” when “relationships break down” in a candid interview

RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2025

Carol theorised that there “isn’t such a thing” as a “perfect romance” (Image: Getty)

Carol Kirkwood has opened up about the anguish of her divorce, admitting it is “sad” when “relationships break down”. The BBC Breakfast meteorologist, who announced this morning that she is leaving the BBC after more than 25 years, reflected on relationships in a previous interview in which she looked back on her former marriage.

Carol, who married police officer Steve Randall in 2023, was previously wed to property developer Jimmy Kirkwood. The couple separated in 2008 after 18 years together.

She has previously revealed that during this challenging period she maintained her bubbly on-screen persona while broadcasting, despite needing a proper weep behind the scenes.

Carol has since said there is no such thing as a “perfect romance” and offered perspective on her past relationship, acknowledging that it is “sad” when things come to an end.

Speaking to Woman’s Way, she said: “I love hearing about how people meet. I feel sad when relationships break down. I was married before and we got divorced, and it’s always sad when that happens.”

Carol Kirkwood

LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 22: Carol Kirkwood attends the 2023 Chelsea Flower Show at Royal Hospital Chelsea on May 22, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Jeff Spicer/Getty Images) (Image: Getty Images)

“But of course, there isn’t such a thing — I don’t think — as a perfect romance, where you’re never going to fall out or have cross words. Of course you are; that’s life.”

Carol, who is also a published author, has appeared on hugely popular shows including Strictly Come Dancing and The One Show. She has previously explained how her career helped her cope during her divorce, allowing her to place her “grief into a compartment”.

Speaking to Yours magazine, Carol revealed that she kept her personal pain “separate” from her professional life; otherwise, she admitted, she would likely have ended up in a “puddle of tears”.

However, Carol has also been full of praise for her husband Steve, describing him as “very romantic and very generous”. Speaking to PA, she added that he is a “lovely man”.

Chelsea Flower Show..Carol Kirkwood On The Ground Chasing A Blind Dog During Filming Today ....Evening Standard Picture

Carol Kirkwood has opened up about her divorce heartache (Image: Getty)

Follwoing news of her departure, Carole said leaving the BBC after more than 25 years “hasn’t been an easy decision to make”, but added it “feels like the right moment to step away”.

In a statement, she said: “It’s been an absolute privilege to bring you the weather every day. My job is something I’ve never taken for granted and I’ve loved every minute!

“From early starts and all manner of forecasts, I’ve shared it with incredible colleagues at BBC Breakfast, BBC Weather and programmes across the BBC. I’d like to thank them for their support and friendship which has meant the world.

“And to those watching and listening at home – thank you for all the kindness you have shown me over the years, being part of your mornings has been a joy. This hasn’t been an easy decision to make, but it feels like the right moment to step away. I’ll carry with me the most wonderful memories.”