A Weather Icon’s Second Chance at Love

Carol Kirkwood, the beloved BBC weather presenter known for her sunny disposition and impeccable forecasts, has always been a fixture in British households. At 63, she continues to brighten mornings on BBC Breakfast, but her personal life has recently taken center stage with her marriage in her sixties—a milestone she describes as “absolutely wonderful.” In a candid interview with Saga Magazine, Kirkwood opened up about tying the knot with policeman Steve Randall at age 61, sharing heartfelt insights into love later in life and a delightfully quirky royal encounter that added a touch of magic to her wedding day. As she reflects on this new chapter, Kirkwood’s story is one of resilience, joy, and the unexpected surprises that come with embracing happiness at any age.

Born Carol MacKellaig on May 29, 1962, in the picturesque village of Morar in the Scottish Highlands, Kirkwood grew up in a close-knit family of eight children. Her early life was steeped in the rugged beauty of the Scottish landscape, which perhaps fueled her lifelong fascination with weather patterns. After attending Lochaber High School in Fort William, she pursued a degree in commerce at Napier College in Edinburgh, now part of Edinburgh Napier University. Initially, Kirkwood worked in various roles, including as a secretary and in recruitment, before her charisma led her to broadcasting. She joined BBC Radio Scotland in the late 1980s, honing her skills as a presenter, and by 1998, she had transitioned to television as a weather forecaster for BBC News.

Kirkwood’s career trajectory has been nothing short of meteoric. She became a staple on BBC Breakfast in the early 2000s, where her warm, engaging style won over millions. Over the years, she has covered major events, from royal weddings to severe storms, always with a blend of professionalism and approachability. Her accolades include multiple TRIC Awards for Best TV Weather Presenter and a spot on the Royal Meteorological Society’s list of fellows. Beyond weather, Kirkwood has ventured into writing, authoring romantic novels like Under a Greek Moon (2021) and Once Upon a Time in Venice (2024), which draw on her love for travel and storytelling. Her latest book, released in hardback this August, transports readers to the canals of Venice, reflecting her own penchant for romantic escapism.

Finding Love Again: The Road to Marriage

Kirkwood’s personal life has had its share of ups and downs. Her first marriage to businessman Jimmy Kirkwood lasted from 1990 to 2008, ending in an amicable divorce. For years afterward, she embraced single life, focusing on her career and family. “I was very happily single for a long time and wasn’t looking for love at all,” she admitted in her Saga interview. But fate had other plans. Introduced to Steve Randall through a mutual friend, Kirkwood was initially taken aback by his boldness. “He asked for my number, and I thought, ‘Who does he think he is?’” she recalled with a laugh. Yet, upon getting to know him, she found him “lovely,” and their connection blossomed into a deep, supportive relationship.

Randall, a policeman 14 years her junior, shares Kirkwood’s grounded values and sense of humor. The couple’s romance went public in 2022 when they were spotted at the Chelsea Flower Show, hand in hand. That same year, Randall proposed during a riverside picnic near their Berkshire home. “He’d proposed when we were on a riverbank picnic near our home in Berkshire,” Kirkwood shared, her voice filled with warmth. The proposal caught her by surprise, but she accepted, feeling a profound sense of rightness. “I never in a million years thought I’d find love again, let alone get married again. But I did, and it’s absolutely wonderful.”

Marrying in her sixties brought a unique perspective for Kirkwood. At 61, she felt more self-assured than ever. “I feel very fortunate. I know how lucky I am. It’s never too late—that’s my message,” she emphasized. Society often portrays love and marriage as pursuits of the young, but Kirkwood challenges that notion, highlighting how maturity brings clarity and appreciation. “When you’re older, you know what you want, and you’re less likely to settle,” she explained. Her relationship with Randall thrives on mutual respect; he understands her demanding schedule, which starts at 2:45 a.m. for BBC Breakfast, and supports her passions, from writing to gardening.

The Wedding: A Perfect Day Amid the Storm

The couple exchanged vows on December 27, 2023, at the luxurious Cliveden House in Berkshire—a historic venue known for its opulent gardens and royal connections. Described by Kirkwood as “the best day of my life,” the wedding was intimate, with around 70 guests, including her BBC Breakfast colleagues Sally Nugent and Nina Warhurst. Despite the festive season, the day was not without drama: Storm Gerrit raged outside, bringing heavy rain and winds. “We had Storm Gerrit on our wedding day, but it didn’t dampen our spirits,” Kirkwood quipped. In fact, the storm added a poetic touch, symbolizing the couple’s ability to weather life’s challenges together.

Kirkwood stunned in a bespoke Suzanne Neville gown, elegant and timeless, complementing the venue’s grandeur. The ceremony was private and romantic, focusing on their love rather than extravagance. “It was small, intimate, and perfect,” she said, echoing sentiments shared on social media shortly after. Photos released later showed the beaming couple, with Kirkwood’s radiant smile capturing the joy of the moment. Randall, dapper in a suit, looked equally elated. The reception featured heartfelt toasts, delicious cuisine, and dancing, creating memories that Kirkwood cherishes deeply.

The Unique Royal Photo: A Humorous Encounter

One of the wedding’s most memorable highlights was an unexpected royal encounter that resulted in what Kirkwood calls her “unique royal photo.” Cliveden House, a favorite of the British monarchy, hosted King Charles III and Queen Camilla for an event on the same day. In a serendipitous twist, the paths of the newlyweds and the royals crossed. “We had our photograph taken with the King and Queen, which was amazing,” Kirkwood recounted. But the story takes a humorous turn: “The King said, ‘Make sure you get my good side,’ and I said, ‘Well, which side is that?’ And he said, ‘My nostrils!’ So, the King has a great sense of humour.”

This lighthearted exchange, captured in the photo, showcases King Charles’s witty personality and adds a regal flair to Kirkwood’s wedding album. The image, which she treasures, features the monarch’s nostrils prominently, as per his jest. “It’s a photo I’ll always cherish—not just for the royalty, but for the laughter it brings,” she said. The encounter underscores Kirkwood’s down-to-earth charm; despite rubbing shoulders with royalty, she remains relatable, sharing the anecdote with genuine delight. Queen Camilla, known for her warmth, also congratulated the couple, making the day even more special.

Reflections on Love Later in Life

Kirkwood’s marriage in her sixties is more than a personal milestone—it’s an inspiring message for others. In an era where societal pressures often dictate timelines for love and marriage, she advocates for patience and self-discovery. “Don’t rush into anything. When it’s right, you’ll know,” she advised. Her journey from heartbreak after her first divorce to finding Randall proves that second chances exist. “I was content being single, but love found me when I least expected it,” she reflected.

Friends and colleagues have celebrated her happiness. BBC Breakfast co-host Naga Munchetty praised her as “glowing,” while viewers flooded social media with well-wishes. Kirkwood’s openness about her age and marriage challenges stereotypes, empowering women to embrace life on their terms. “Age is just a number,” she asserted, echoing sentiments from her Saga interview. Randall’s supportive role—helping with her early mornings and sharing quiet evenings—highlights the partnership’s strength.

Career and Creativity: Beyond the Forecast

While her personal life blooms, Kirkwood’s professional world remains vibrant. As BBC Breakfast‘s lead weather presenter, she delivers forecasts with expertise honed over decades. Her meteorological knowledge, certified by the Met Office, combines with her engaging delivery to make weather segments must-watch. Off-screen, she’s an accomplished author, with her novels blending romance and adventure. Once Upon a Time in Venice, her latest, draws from her travels, offering escapism amid her busy schedule.

Kirkwood’s creativity extends to philanthropy; she’s supported causes like cancer research and children’s charities, often drawing from personal experiences. Her Scottish roots influence her work ethic, as she credits her upbringing for her resilience. “Growing up in Morar taught me to appreciate the simple things,” she said.

Public Reaction and Legacy

Kirkwood’s story has resonated widely, with media outlets hailing her as a role model. Fans on social media share stories of finding love later, inspired by her candor. “Carol’s wedding proves it’s never too late,” one X post read, garnering thousands of likes. Her royal photo anecdote has gone viral, humanizing the monarchy and adding whimsy to her narrative.

As she approaches her mid-sixties, Kirkwood shows no signs of slowing. Retirement? “Not yet,” she laughed, planning more books and broadcasts. Her marriage to Randall, a blend of romance and realism, symbolizes hope. “Life surprises you,” she mused. With her unique royal photo as a cherished memento, Kirkwood’s journey—from Scottish lass to broadcasting icon and blissful bride—continues to inspire.

Embracing the Future

In reflecting on her sixties, Kirkwood radiates optimism. “This decade has been the best yet,” she declared. Her marriage, the royal snapshot, and her enduring career paint a portrait of a woman thriving. As fans tune in for her forecasts, they also celebrate her life’s sunny outlook. Carol Kirkwood: proof that love, laughter, and a touch of royalty can brighten any horizon.