Fergal Keane Announces Departure from BBC After 37 Years
London, 13 February 2026 – One of the most distinguished voices in British and Irish broadcasting, Fergal Keane, has announced his departure from the BBC. After a career spanning 37 years with the corporation, the veteran foreign correspondent expressed “immense gratitude” for his time at the broadcaster, while warning that threats to a free press from oligarchs are now greater than ever.
A Career Defined by Courage
Keane, 65, joined the BBC in 1989 and quickly established himself as a premier world affairs journalist. He is widely recognised for his empathetic and unflinching reporting from global conflict zones, most notably during the Rwandan genocide in 1994 and South Africa’s transition to democracy. His work has been consistently honoured by the industry, earning him a BAFTA, an Emmy, and the prestigious George Orwell Prize.
Before joining the BBC, Keane began his journalistic journey in 1979 at the Limerick Leader. He later worked for The Irish Press and RTÉ in Belfast before moving to London. Throughout his tenure as a Special Correspondent, he has been open about the personal toll of war reporting, specifically his diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which he detailed in his 2023 memoir, The Madness.
Key Facts: Fergal Keane
The following table outlines the professional milestones and personal details of the veteran correspondent as of February 2026.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Fergal Patrick Keane OBE HonFBA |
| Date of Birth | 6 January 1961 |
| Place of Birth | London, United Kingdom |
| Education | Educated in Dublin and County Cork, Ireland |
| BBC Tenure | 1989 – 2026 (37 Years) |
| Major Awards | BAFTA, Emmy, George Orwell Prize |
| Notable Works | Wounds, The Madness (Memoir) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Fergal Keane leaving the BBC?
While Keane has not specified a single reason for his departure, he stated he is leaving with “immense gratitude” and “sadness” after nearly four decades. His recent comments also highlighted his concerns regarding modern threats to press freedom.
What was Fergal Keane’s first job in journalism?
Keane began his career in 1979 as a reporter for the Limerick Leader and Chronicle in Ireland before moving to national titles and eventually international broadcasting.
Has Fergal Keane retired from journalism entirely?
The announcement specifically confirms his departure from the BBC. As a prolific author and public speaker, it is expected he will continue to contribute to literature and public discourse, though his next specific role has not yet been confirmed.