TV presenter Sally Nugent has seemingly addressed her recent absence from BBC Breakfast in a series of new social media posts, after being off-air for three days.

The journalist typically fronts BBC Breakfast from Monday until Wednesday each week alongside co-host Jon Kay, but had been replaced this week by fellow star Luxmy Gopal.

Sally’s absence hadn’t been addressed on screen by her colleagues and she hadn’t specifically addressed it either, despite fans wondering where she’s been.

However, on Tuesday (5 August) evening, the TV favourite shared a series of snaps from her birthday celebrations, which appeared to explain why she’d been off-screen this week.

Sally, who turned 54 on Tuesday, posted birthday tributes from her friends to her Instagram Stories, as well as a photograph of herself celebrating with drinks.

She could be seen posing in a white mini dress with a pair of oversized sunglasses in the post, captioned: “Pink wine”.

A second photograph showed Sally opening a number of presents and cards from her loved ones as she beamed for the camera.

The journalist also revealed her BBC colleague Jon had sent her a fun birthday card to mark her big day, which poked fun at her age.

Jon issued a sweet tribute to Sally on social media to mark her big day, writing: “Not only is 5th August International Dolly Parton Day… it’s also International Sally Nugent Day. Happy Birthday to my brilliant, clever, kind and funny friend xx #bbcbreakfast #birthday”.

BBC Breakfast fans were quick to react to the message, with many praising Sally and Jon. One person commented: “Love you two on morning news,” and another agreed: “What a team! Happy birthday Sally x.”

Sally Nugent

Someone else said: “You are a great team on @bbcbreakfast!” and a fourth BBC fan said: “My favourite morning news presenters!” and another called Jon and Sally “the best”.

The duo began fronting three episodes per week of BBC Breakfast in 2022, following the exit of Dan Walker. Charlie Stayt and Naga Munchetty host Thursday until Saturday, while various presenters front Sunday’s instalment of the programme.