In a surprise on-air announcement, BBC Breakfast presenter Ben Boulos revealed he is leaving the popular morning show and the BBC after a 16-year career with the broadcaster.
An Emotional On-Air Farewell
The news came during the final moments of the programme on Sunday, 11th January 2026. Hosting alongside Luxmy Gopal, Boulos shared the personal update with viewers. "Just before we finish, just to share a bit of news about me," he began. "It's my last appearance on Breakfast for the time being, I am off to take a new job elsewhere."
Becoming visibly emotional, he added, "I will miss this place, I will miss this programme a lot." His co-host offered support, placing a hand on his shoulder.
Boulos expressed his gratitude, stating, "I have had the most wonderful time on Breakfast. I just want to say thank you to the brilliant teams that we work with and above all thank you to everyone watching at home for letting me be a part of your mornings. It has been a real pleasure and a privilege."
A Distinguished Broadcasting Career
Benjamin Mark Bland, known professionally as Ben Boulos, has been a familiar face across BBC news output for over a decade and a half. His roles have included presenting on Business Live, Talking Business, and World Business Report.
He also served as a main relief presenter for BBC World News, the BBC News Channel, and the BBC World Service. Boulos joined the BBC Breakfast sofa as one of its anchors three years ago in 2022.
The presenter had previously explained his decision to use his maternal surname, Boulos, professionally in 2021. He said the change from Bland was partly to avoid confusion with an Australian journalist but also because Bland "hid aspects" of his identity. Adopting the surname from his mother of Sudanese-Egyptian descent allowed him to better represent his heritage.
New Challenges Ahead
In a social media video posted over the weekend, Boulos elaborated on his decision. "New year, new start, new challenge. A big change for me in 2026 and exciting times ahead!" he wrote.
Speaking to the camera, he reflected on "the most wonderful decade and a half" at the BBC but confirmed, "it is time for a change and a challenge for the new year, and I'm leaving to take up a very exciting opportunity elsewhere."
While keeping specific details under wraps, he assured followers, "All I will say for the moment is that I will still be in broadcasting and presenting on television, and I will share some more details about it with you very soon."
His announcement prompted an outpouring of support from his 16,000 Instagram followers and colleagues, with many expressing how much he will be missed on the iconic red sofa.
BBC Breakfast airs weekdays from 6am to 9am and from 6am on weekends on BBC One.
