BBC viewers devastated after host announces ‘I’m leaving’ in emotional exit (Image: BBC)
BBC presenter Frankie McCamley announced in a double blow that she is leaving after a decade at the broadcaster but also has plans to move out of London. She is best known for reporting for BBC News but has also fronted Panorama’s Knife Crime documentary What Happened to Our Boys?
In a heartfelt post shared on Wednesday (June 10) the journalist said it was almost time to say goodbye before being flooded with messages from concerned viewers. Sharing a photo beside the newsdesk, she began, “It’s nearly time to say goodbye to a huge chapter in my life. Leaving the BBC & London wasn’t an easy decision.”
“I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who trusted me to tell their stories & to those who gave me opportunities I could only have dreamed of. Now for a new challenge,” Frankie added.
Her 9,778 followers were devastated by the news of her departure as they flocked to the comment section.
One wrote: “Frankie, such disappointing news, from my perspective, best BBC London presenter by miles. Thrilled 4 u though, please let us know where u r going, I may have to move!!!” (sic)
Another commented: “Will miss seeing a familiar face on screen when I look up. Good luck with new endeavours, Frankie.”
“Sorry to hear the news. You’re smile and cheerfulness always light up the London News. Change is always good though. Wishing you every success and luck for the future,” a third wrote.
A fourth added: “Sorry to hear that big fan here across the pond in USA. Good luck in your new adventure. Hopefully we’ll find out soon. Have a great one.”
Frankie did not divulge her next venture but told viewers to stay tuned.
The news comes after the BBC previously announced attempts to cut as many as 2,000 jobs in the biggest downsizing of the public service broadcaster in 15 years.
In April, taff were informed that, on average across the BBC, about 10% of the corporation’s 21,500 employees would be affected as part of a £600m cost-cutting plan, but it was not clear at the time that news operations would see even deeper cuts.
The development comes as Matt Brittin, the former top Google executive, takes over as the corporation’s new director general from May 18.
