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In 1999, Trevor McDonald was honored with a knighthood for his contributions to journalism, and by 2006, he was appointed as a deputy lieutenant of Greater London. That same year, he secured the 31st spot in ITV’s poll of TV’s 50 Greatest Stars, underscoring his cherished status in the realm of broadcast journalism. But what is Sir Trevor McDonald like when the cameras are off? Actress Jess Impiazzi, who has admired him since childhood, shared her insights with Express.co.uk.
While discussing her latest film, “Jitters,” Jess recounted the many celebrities she has encountered over the years, but none left as lasting an impression as Sir Trevor McDonald. “I met Sir Trevor McDonald at the RNIB (Royal National Institute of Blind People) event because my mom, who is blind, was invited. I was in awe; he was this wise, gentle presence. I’ve always regarded him as a remarkable newsreader, someone I grew up watching at my grandmother’s house when she insisted on having the news on,” she shared.
Jess described feeling as though she was in the presence of greatness, having admired Sir Trevor from a young age. “I’ve met a lot of people, but Sir Trevor McDonald really impressed me. I was eager to get a photo with him,” she said, recalling her encounter with the renowned broadcaster and how it revealed the genuine nature of the man behind the screen.
“He’s incredibly kind and polite,” Jess continued. “When I asked for a picture, the first one didn’t turn out well, and he noticed my disappointment. He graciously allowed me to take another. He’s truly lovely.”
In 2008, Sir Trevor announced his decision to step down from his position as co-presenter of News at Ten, though he continued to pursue various hosting roles beyond that iconic stint.
At the time, he said: “I’ve tremendously enjoyed the opportunity to help re-establish News at Ten over the last year and to work alongside Julie Etchingham, who is a fantastically talented journalist, but I’ve made no secret of the fact that I cannot be in the presenter’s chair forever. Anchoring ITV News’s live coverage of a hugely exciting and historic US election seems the opportune moment to leave on a high.”