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After a remarkable 37-year tenure, Fergal Keane, a renowned foreign correspondent, is parting ways with the BBC. At 65, Keane shared his mixed emotions in a brief statement. “While it’s naturally bittersweet to leave, I am profoundly grateful for the opportunities and the colleagues I’ve had the privilege to work with. The BBC continues to be the foremost public service broadcaster globally. Leaving now, while I still have the energy and curiosity for new adventures, aligns perfectly with my plans,” he expressed.
Keane’s journey with the BBC began in 1989 when he was appointed as the Northern Ireland correspondent. A year later, in 1990, he transitioned to the role of South African correspondent, a position he held for four years. During his time there, he reported on the country’s turmoil, the historic multi-racial elections post-apartheid, and the Rwandan genocide. His work on Valentina’s Story in 1997 earned him a BAFTA award.
In 1994, Keane shifted roles once more, becoming the BBC’s Asia correspondent. He was stationed in Hong Kong during the significant handover from British to Chinese governance, marking the end of over 150 years of British administration in the area.
More recently, Keane has delivered extensive coverage on the ongoing war in Ukraine and the hostilities in Gaza.
Richard Burgess, the BBC’s director of news content, lauded Keane by stating, “Fergal’s career is distinguished by the quality of his journalism and storytelling, enriched by the humanity and empathy evident in all his reports.”
“Beyond his professional achievements, Fergal is clever, kind and generous, as well as thoughtful and witty. We will miss him as a valued colleague,” he added.
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Tributes and praise flooded in for the star as news of his departure became public. Writing on Facebook one said: “Brilliant reporter…He will be missed…”
A second added: “An amazing man. Won’t see the likes of him again.” A third chimed in: “Excellent reporter, will be missed.” a fourth shared: “Sad to hear this, a trusted reporter…”
A fifth penned: “He’s a amazing journalist.” Meanwhile a sixth commented: “Well done – comhghairdeas [congratulations]….he sure has put in hard yards in some of the most difficult places in the world.”
Although leaving his day job Fergal has no plans to rest on his laurels. Already the author of several books, he is currently working on his first novel and a new non-fiction work. He is also set to maintain his association with the BBC as a freelancer to produce long-form film and video content.