After 17 years, Naga Munchetty is swapping the iconic BBC Breakfast red sofa for the host's chair on Radio 5 Live. The 51-year-old has been a mainstay of the morning news programme for the past 12 years, first joining as a stand-in presenter in 2009 before becoming a regular host in 2014.
The journalist, who currently presents the show from Thursday to Saturday alongside Charlie Stayt and also hosts 5 Live's mid-morning programme, is set to front 5 Live Breakfast five days a week.
"It has been a privilege to be part of the BBC Breakfast TV team for the past 17 years, working alongside an incredibly talented and hard-working group of journalists who are not only outstanding colleagues but also great friends," she said in a statement. "Presenting a flagship programme on 5 Live is an opportunity that was simply too good to pass up. It will take a huge amount of work and require 100% of my focus and energy, and I'm really looking forward to throwing myself into the role."
We've seen a number of presenters come and go from the BBC Breakfast studio over the years. In 2021, Sally Nugent became a main presenter following Louise Minchin's departure, hosting alongside Dan Walker until his exit in 2022. Since then, Jon Kay has presented the programme with Sally from Monday to Wednesday.
So, who could replace Naga Munchetty and join Charlie on the sofa? If the show's track record is anything to go by, the next host is likely already working for the BBC in some capacity, and may have even stood in for the main anchors before. Keep reading to find out who is tipped to take over.
© James StackSally has been a main presenter on the show since 2021
Sally Nugent
Sally Nugent, who already fronts the show three days a week, has been rumoured to be stepping into Naga's role.
According to a report from The Sun, BBC Breakfast bosses were thrilled over Sally's recent interview with Nigel Farage, in which he was questioned about a £5 million gift he had received from a Reform UK donor before he became an MP. A source told the publication that the journalist is being eyed as the future of the show.
© Nina Warhurst/XNina spent seven years as the show's business and consumer presenter
Nina Warhurst
While she might have left BBC Breakfast for the BBC's News at One last year, Nina Warhurst is another familiar face whose name has been thrown into the ring.
After spending seven years as the programme's business and consumer presenter, could the 45-year-old make a comeback as a main host?
Her work as a political correspondent has meant she's interviewed several high profile figures, including three prime ministers – so it's safe to say Naga would be leaving the show in safe hands if Nina were to step in.
© BBCLuxmy regularly stands in for the main hosts
Luxmy Gopal
As a regular stand-in presenter, Luxmy is already a familiar face to the BBC Breakfast audience. Having filled in for the main anchors since 2016, her move to a permanent role would ensure a seamless transition for the programme.
The journalist has worked for the BBC since 2011, first as a broadcast journalist for BBC Surrey, then an investigative journalist for BBC Inside Out South East. She is currently a Video Journalist and Presenter for BBC Look North.
© InstagramSarah has worked for the BBC for decades
Sarah Campbell
Another easy fit would be Sarah Campbell, who has been a regular face on BBC Breakfast since 2003. As a royal correspondent for the BBC, Sarah has reported on some of the biggest royal events in recent years, including the death of Queen Elizabeth II and coronation of King Charles III.
She also co-hosted BBC Breakfast's special programme on the Post Office scandal in 2025, which won a BAFTA. With a wealth of experience behind her, Sarah would make a great addition to the permanent team.
