BBC News host shocks fans by announcing they’ve QUIT after 30 years on screens
A LONG-standing BBC News presenter has shocked fans by announcing his decision to step down from the role.
Aaron Heslehurst is departing the BBC after working there for over two decades.
The 57-year-old veteran presenter took to social media to announce his imminent exit.
Originally hailing from Australia, Aaron has been a BBC business news presenter since 2002 and presented across all of their television channels.
Aaron started his journalistic career as a news reporter for Prime Television/Seven Network in Sydney and Canberra.
He took to X – formerly Twitter – to share news of his farewell, penning: “I guess it’s time to share something with you.
“This week will be my very last show at the BBC.
“After 30yrs in TV news and 22.5 of them at the BBC, it’s time to close this chapter!
“For those who’ve enjoyed my shows over the years, I say THANK YOU.
“It’s been an honour & a privilege.”
Longtime viewers soon flooded the comment section to wish Aaron well, with one penning: “Star quality; and we viewers have revelled in every minute.
“Best wishes for the next adventure!”
Another remarked: “Sorry to see you go Aaron. Good luck with whatever you’re doing next.”
Meanwhile, a third shared: “Always enjoyed watching your shows and your humour. Wish you all the best!”
A fellow fan wrote: “Sorry to hear this Aaron. Your infectious energy will be much missed.
“I’m among the many who have long admired your work & had the chance to meet you in person on occasions where you were always such a generous colleague.”
BBC departures and returns
LEAVING/LEFT
Newsnight’s Mark Urban after 35 years on air
Claudia Winkleman quitting BBC Radio 2 after 15 years
Correspondent Robin Brant after two decades
Sports presenter Garry Richardson after 50 years
BBC Radio star Jason Rosam after 16 years on air
Jordan North quitting Radio 1 and moving to Capital
RETURNING/RETURNED
Martine Croxall after launching legal action against the Beeb
Karin Giannone after a horror injury and year off air
Annita McVeigh after losing out on a chief presenter job last year
Geeta Guru-Murthy after also being off air for more than a year
In a follow-up post, Aaron expressed his gratitude to those who had reached out following his announcement.
He said: “With tears in my eyes and hand on heart – I was not expecting (at all) such an outpouring of love & gratitude!
“You know, you just do your job day in & day out and never really realise it’s impact on people.
“So, I can’t thank you enough. I’ll still be here on X so stick with me.”