BBC Breakfast icon addresses 'show return' question after Naga Munchetty quits

The 44-year-old’s lunchtime show, which featured celebrity guests, food segments and entertainment, was cancelled in 2023 due to audience habits “changing quicker than ever”.

The North Shields-born presenter has since launched a podcast and fronted consumer shows, juggling work with looking after her six-year-old daughter, whose name she has not publicly revealed.

When asked by The Metro if she would go back to BBC Breakfast, she said: "My life goes in stages.”

Steph McGovern addressed whether she would return to BBC Breakfast

BBC

Referring to her busy mum schedule, McGovern went on: “And this stage isn't one that involves getting up at half past three to go on telly."

Asked if she had any advice for Munchety following her exit from BBC Breakfast, she added: "I don't think I need to give Naga any advice, she's an all-round legend.

"I talk to her mainly to check in on how we are We don't discuss career things. She's a powerhouse in herself and brilliant at what she does."

McGovern’s former show began as The Steph Show before changing name and ran for 140 minutes. Anton Du Beke, Denise van Outen, and Greg Wise were all regular guests.

Naga Munchetty with co-host Charlie Stayt

BBC

Munchetty, who earns up to £365,000 at the BBC, currently presents BBC Breakfast alongside Charlie Stayt every Thursday to Saturday, having joined the show in 2014.

She announced in July that she is quitting BBC Breakfast after 17 years on the show and moving to BBC Radio 5 Live in January.

The decision comes after she was reportedly placed under review last summer following complaints of bullying over a three-year period.