Jon Snow: Channel 4 News looks back at career of newsreader

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Jon has been the longest-serving presenter in the show’s history and whilst he has confirmed he is leaving the show, he will continue to work with Channel 4 in the new year. During the broadcaster’s career, Jon covered some of the UK’s most significant political events including the elections of Margaret Thatcher and Tony Blair, the release of Nelson Mandela, the fall of the Berlin Wall and the Grenfell disaster. Described by fellow presenter Krishnan Guru-Murthy as a “national treasure”, Jon will now have more time to focus on other projects in the pipeline. Following the announcement of his departure, the legendary reporter explained his real reason behind the move.

Earlier this year, the popular newsreader and his wife Dr Precious Lunga, 47, welcomed their first child together after 11 years of marriage. 

Speaking ahead of his retirement from the Channel 4 news programme, Jon revealed how his physical appearance left him feeling “craggy” on TV.

In an interview with Radio Times, the reporter revealed the thinking behind his decision to leave: “I’m 74 and I’m beginning to show it. You don’t want to look craggy on air.” 

In jest, Jon added: “So, it’s time I was assassinated.” 

The former correspondent recalled his first-ever live appearance on the Channel 4 show and confessed his presenting skills were “probably not very good”. 

30 years on, Jon has had a remarkable career in journalism with two BAFTA awards to show for it.

In the 1980s, Margaret Thatcher created Channel 4 during her time as Prime Minister, Jon was quizzed on his feelings towards the former Conservative leader.

Jon admitted: “I did a lot of interviews with her over the years. I didn’t necessarily admire her politics, but I admired her leadership.” 

After a long-standing career in television, the presenter did admit to receiving some hate mail but revealed he “almost never” felt bad about it.

He said: “I should think no more than half a dozen hate letters a year.”

The veteran broadcaster seemingly accepted this as part of his role and said his harshest critics were “bonkers”. 

Jon added: “You feel sorry for them.” 

Jon was questioned about the rumours on an imminent move to GB News.

He said: “I’m still on the books of Channel 4. If I was tempted to join GB News, it would, unfortunately, be legally impossible.”

Jon has been previously under fire with Channel 4 viewers following a comment made whilst reporting on a pro-Brexit rally.

The presenter said he had “never seen so many white people in one place”.

More than 2,600 complaints were sent to Ofcom about his comment.

Channel 4 backed the 74-year-old journalist by stating the comments made were “factually accurate”.

Ofcom ruled in favour of the broadcaster and concluded: “Mr Snow’s statement was sufficiently contextualised in this particular case.”

Jon looks forward to focusing on his charity work and his other passions in life.

Jon’s full interview will be available to read in the Radio Times Christmas issue.

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