Jon Snow to step down from Channel 4 News role after more than three decades

Channel 4 News presenter Jon Snow has decided to leave his role after 32-years at the helm of the broadcaster’s flagship news programme.

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The established presenter and journalist, whose career at ITN has spanned 45 years, will leave the programme as the longest-serving presenter in the show’s history.

Mr Snow, however, will continue to work with Channel 4 in 2022, the broadcaster confirmed.

Speaking about his decision today, the 73-year-old said: “After three incredible decades on Channel 4 News, it is time to move on. I am excited by the many things I want to accomplish but I have to say I have enjoyed every minute of my time with the programme.

“It has brought me adventure, as well as sorrow in some of the stories that I have had to report and also joy in reporting others, but above all, it has brought me community in working with the most fantastic group of people who are bound in intellect, humour and understanding.

“Together, we have forged a wonderful service. I feel proud to have contributed to Channel 4 News let alone to have anchored the programme for the last 32 years. I’m looking forward to new adventures and new challenges.”

Jon Snow to leave Channel 4 at the end of the year after more than three decades at the broadcaster picture: Hayley Barlow/Channel 4 News

From next year, Mr Snow will front “longer form projects” for Channel 4. He will also focus on his charities and some of his many passions in life, peoples’ stories, inequality, Africa, Iran and the arts.

Jon began his career in journalism for Independent Radio News, LBC in 1973. He started at ITN in 1976 and served as Washington correspondent (1983–1986) and as diplomatic editor (1986–1989) before becoming the main presenter of Channel 4 News in 1989.

In 2017 Jon delivered the prestigious MacTaggart lecture at the Edinburgh International Television Festival and called out organisations for lack of diversity across the media.

Jon Snow reporting from Sri Lanka. Snow has decided to step down from his role from the end of the year after 32-years at the helm of the flagship news programme.

Channel 4 News editor Ben de Pear said: “Jon has been the driving force behind Channel 4 News for the last 30 years. His fearless journalism, inherent compassion, a nose for a good story as well as sympathy for the underdog have been powered by relentless energy, charm and a mischievous sense of fun. It has been a great honour to be his editor and friend, and I know that everyone at Channel 4 News and ITN feels that he is far more than a colleague.

“As well as his support and friendship to fellow workers, for decades he has worked tirelessly for a multitude of charities and causes beyond the public gaze and for no other reason than to help those less fortunate than himself.

“He may be leaving us after decades on the front line of history, but his contribution will live on and undoubtedly continue elsewhere. He is a wonderful man, and it has been an honour to call Jon our friend and colleague.”

Deborah Turness, of ITN, said: “Over a lifetime dedicated to journalism, and in a life devoted to fairness and humanity, Jon Snow has earned a unique and special place in the hearts of the British audience. There is only one Jon Snow – when they made him, they broke the mould. His warmth, intellect and decency have always prevailed, even as he held the powerful to account and sought justice for the weak and powerless.”

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