A BBC star has called time on her morning show appearance after seven years – admitting the early alarm calls ‘are brutal’.
Sports commentator Katie Smith announced her departure from 5Live Breakfast show to fans on X, formerly Twitter.
She wrote: “I’m leaving the wonderful 5Live Breakfast show in a couple of weeks after a brilliant few years of mayhem with Rachel Burden, Rick Edwards, and the amazing producers and editors.
“I still remember the first time I walked into MediaCity and I knew I had to work there.
“Fast-forward a few years, and I can’t believe how much I’ve learnt, the people I’ve met, and, more especially, the places I have been privileged enough to visit.”
But she has admitted that early starts have been taking their toll, saying: “The morning alarms are brutal, and it’s time to have a new adventure – which is the plan for 2025 and beyond.”
Katie was part of the BBC team for the recent Olympics in Paris and has been a familiar face on 5 Live Breakfast on the weekend.
She has been with the breakfast show since 2017.
But the sports journalist added that she isn’t leaving 5 Live for good, saying: “I’m so proud I am still doing lots of that for 5Live Sport and the BBC, which will still bring us together for the biggest moments better than anyone else.”
Fans praised her excellent coverage of the Paris 2024 Olympics for 5Live.
One fan said: “You and the rest of the 5Live Sport Team have been immense at the Olympics, and it has been a joy to listen to all your commentaries, stories, and laughs.”
Another added: “You did a brilliant job in Paris. And your commentating double-act with Buncey was fantastic.”
While a third commented: “Great work Katie, coverage of the Olympics was first class.”
Many fans wished her luck, with one commenting on a possible new gig for the star: “Stay on 5Live, please—it’s always great to listen to.
“Taking over from Chappers when he goes on MOTD?”
To which she replied: “Ooh I like your thinking! And so glad you enjoy it! I won’t be going far.”
