Nigella Lawson bids farewell to BBC colleague and admits 'it's our loss'
TV chef Nigella Lawson and BBC newsreader Clive Myrie have led the tributes to journalist and broadcaster Mark Urban, who has announced that he is leaving the BBC - after 35 years.
Known for his fantastic work as a Middle Eastern correspondent for BBC News and his significant contribution to Newsnight, Mark's exit has shocked many.
On Sunday, 14 April, Mark said in a statement on X (formerly known as Twitter): "Personal news, I'll be leaving the BBC at the end of May. Newsnight in its current format will end then, so most posts will go. I decided not to apply for other BBC jobs. Working there for 35 yrs has been life defining: an eyewitness to history collaborating with such brilliant colleagues. But it's time for a change."
Reacting to Mark's news, Clive shared on X: "Very sad news and a big loss for us. Good luck Mark." Joining the sentiment, celebrity chef Nigella said: "It's our loss."
Nigella and Clive's words of support were appreciated by Mark, whose news resulted in a wave of kind regards from both fans and fellow top-tier celebrities.
Addressing Season Just Eat star, Nigella, he said: "Your words mean a lot to me, thank you. hopefully I will find other ways to share my ramblings with the world," to which Nigella responded: "We're all counting on it."
Mark also gratefully replied to Clive, admitting: "Thank you very much Clive. It will be a wrench for me too, but it's time."
Emily Maitlis, who worked alongside Mark on Newsnight, and famously interviewed Prince Andrew in 2019, expressed her feelings, saying: "Mark what a huge huge loss this will be. I so loved working with you. I am very sorry you are leaving - and your catchphrase will stay with us all forever .. xx."
The departure of Mark comes amid reports that Newsnight is struggling to stay on air after seeing its viewership halve, losing 30 staff members, and facing over £7 million in budget cuts, according to the Express.
Last year, it was reported that the programme, once fronted by Emily Maitlis, would be losing its reporters, cutting its duration by 10 minutes, and reducing its focus on investigative films to concentrate more on studio debates.
At that point, Deborah Turness, CEO of BBC News and Current Affairs, recognised the "in a tough financial climate" the broadcaster was navigating, requiring "some difficult choices" due to audiences moving from television to digital news platforms.
Jonathan Aspinwall took on the role of the new editor for the show, promising to "lead Newsnight as it evolves into a debate, discussion and an interview-based programme".
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