Beloved BBC weather presenter Carol Kirkwood is embracing a different kind of forecast — one filled with love, secrets, and Italian sunshine. The seasoned broadcaster, best known for her cheerful delivery on BBC Breakfast, has released her fifth novel and is winning hearts not just with weather updates, but also with words on the page.
In a recent interview while promoting her new book, Secrets of the Villa Amore, Kirkwood gave a rare glimpse into her views on the digital world, and why she prefers to steer clear of the often chaotic landscape of social media.
“I’m not really into the online world too much,” she said. “No disrespect to Gary Lineker, but I’ll stick to weather.” The remark, lighthearted and grounded, was a subtle reference to her BBC colleague who often garners attention for his strong political opinions shared on platforms like X (formerly Twitter). While Lineker has made headlines for his outspoken views, Kirkwood prefers a quieter online presence, one that reflects her own personality.
“I use social media occasionally — mainly to connect with viewers or post the odd weather update,” she explained. “But I’ve never felt the urge to share every opinion or detail of my day. It’s just not me.”
Kirkwood’s authenticity has always been her strength. While she remains a trusted figure in British broadcasting, she’s also become a surprise voice in romantic fiction. Her latest book, set on Italy’s Amalfi Coast, follows four friends whose sun-soaked holiday takes an unexpected turn as long-held secrets come to the surface.
“It’s a story about friendship, forgiveness, and second chances,” Kirkwood said. “I’ve always loved writing, and now it’s become a part of who I am.”
Balancing writing with her full-time job at the BBC is no small task, but she says it’s a creative outlet she deeply values. “I write mostly at night, after my early shifts,” she said. “It’s hard work, but there’s something incredibly fulfilling about building a world and characters from scratch.”
Despite her success as a novelist, Kirkwood has no plans to leave the weather behind. She remains committed to her role on BBC Breakfast, a position she’s held for over two decades.
“I love my job. I love talking about the weather. People joke that I must be up at ridiculous hours — and they’re right — but I wouldn’t trade it. The weather affects us all, and I feel privileged to share that with the nation each day.”
As for social media, she’s content staying on the sidelines. “Everyone has their own way of expressing themselves,” she said with a smile. “But I’m happiest focusing on the forecast, my books, and staying grounded. That’s what matters most to me.”
With her fifth novel now available and her mornings still starting before dawn, Carol Kirkwood continues to do what she does best — connecting with people, whether through a weather map or a well-crafted story, all without the need for controversy or noise.
