BBC Breakfast star says emotional farewell to viewers as show is axed after 30 years
BBC Breakfast host Ben Thompson has announced that World Business News is being cancelled by the BBC News channel after more than 30 years. On Tuesday 7 May, he presented the morning edition of the show and revealed it would be the final one.
“Before we go, some news about us,” he said. “After more than 30 years, we’re going to say goodbye to World Business Report. It’s had quite a few different looks over the years,” he continued, “but it’s time for a new look, and a new name. Business Today is what we’ll be called from later today, all you need to know about money, markets, finance, tech, travel and trade. Business Today here, on BBC News. But for one final time, from me and the team, you’ve been watching World Business Report. Bye bye.”
Ben looked quite emotional as he made the announcement, and viewers were quick to comment on social media as the show ended. “End of an era,” wrote one fan. “Seems like yesterday I was pressing for you to race back to the Dubai office to make the 0830 WBR live.” Another commented, “I hope the theme song remains the same, Ben?” to which Ben replied with a crying emoji. A few former colleagues also commented, including CNN’s Richard Quest, who said: “My gosh. So many years ago. And what brilliant broadcasting we did. (Making it up as we went along)” and BBC News presenter Maryam Roshiri, who added: “What a fab show to have worked for! X.”
The BBC World Business Report was launched in 1995, and presenters include Sally Bundock, Victoria Valentine, Samantha Simmonds, Alice Baxter and Ben Boulos. During the week, the business report was broadcast in the mornings at 5.30am, 6.30am and 7.45am, followed by later shows at 11.30am and 2.30pm, both on BBC News and the BBC’s international news channels.
On Sunday 5 May, Ben Thompson took to X to confirm the series was ending, illustrating his tweet with the different World Business Report logos the BBC have used over the years. “After nearly 30 years, we’re saying goodbye to ‘World Business Report.’ It’s had a few different looks and more than a few different presenters. But it’s time for a change. Out with the old, and in with the err, old. ‘Business Today’ makes a welcome return to @BBCNews next week.”
