Naga Munchetty, a prominent figure on BBC Breakfast for 17 years, is set to leave the program in December to host the BBC Radio 5 Live Breakfast show, beginning in January 2027. The move follows a protracted investigation into allegations of bullying and misconduct against the 51-year-old broadcaster. Insiders suggest her new, highly-paid role at the corporation is a strategic move following the probe.
The investigation into Munchetty reportedly began last summer, stemming from complaints about alleged bullying and inappropriate jokes made over a three-year period. Despite the review, she remained on air. Specific allegations included comments made about fellow presenter Sally Nugent's appearance and remarks about weather presenter Carol Kirkwood's age. Reports also indicated a strained relationship with her BBC Breakfast co-host, Charlie Stayt.
The controversy emerged during a period of scrutiny for BBC Breakfast's editor, Richard Frediani, who was on extended leave due to separate bullying and misconduct allegations. Munchetty was reportedly among those who raised concerns about Frediani, who has since been cleared and returned to his post. The BBC has not publicly disclosed the outcome of the investigation into Munchetty's conduct, stating only that they do not comment on individual HR matters.
Despite the internal investigation, some within the BBC view Munchetty's appointment to the 5 Live Breakfast show as an indication of continued support from the corporation. Her annual salary is reported to be between £360,000 and £364,999. A BBC 5 Live insider described the move as a "big promotion" and a "massive coup" for the radio station.
Further allegations detailed in the reports include questioning by bosses over an alleged sex joke during a radio show ad break, claims of unkindness towards co-presenters, and remarks that reportedly upset guest Geri Halliwell-Horner. She was also accused of making sexual comments and asking a colleague about a specific sex act, and of reprimanding an intern over toast preparation. The BBC has not commented on these specific allegations.
Munchetty's departure from BBC Breakfast marks the end of a significant chapter, during which she became a familiar face to television viewers. Her transition to a full-time radio role comes after she had already been hosting BBC Radio 5 Live's weekday mid-morning program since January 2021. She had also reportedly been in discussions with other media organizations, including LBC and Sky News, though those talks did not result in a departure from the BBC.
Rachel Burden and Rick Edwards, the current hosts of 5 Live Breakfast, will be stepping down from that program in December. Burden is slated to move to the mid-morning slot, while Edwards will host Fighting Talk and contribute to other shows on the station. Munchetty will co-host the 5 Live Breakfast show on weekdays, broadcasting from Salford three days a week and London for the remaining two.
In a statement, Munchetty expressed her enthusiasm for the new role, highlighting her passion for live news, conversations, and audience engagement. She acknowledged her 17 years with BBC Breakfast as a privilege and stated her excitement to take on the new challenge at 5 Live. Controller Heidi Dawson called Munchetty "one of the UK's most accomplished broadcasters."