It’s been hard to narrow it down, but here are the top 5 British news presenters; based on charisma, composure and dedication to the art of presenting the news.
5. Jon ‘Say It Ain’t’ Snow
Being the longest running presenter in Channel 4 News’ history, you might expect Jon’s style to be stale and dated. However, his passion remains high and he shows up in unlikely situations, like dancing to ‘Love Shack’ in The Big Fat Quiz of the Year 2015; making his political affiliations be known at Glastonbury festival; and of course sporting his vast collection of colourful ties and socks, week in and week out on the Channel 4 News.
4. Julie ‘Winning ‘em’ Etchingham
Julie has come a long way since presenting Newsround, broadcasting before the Byker Grove slot, in the ‘90s. She has spent 5 years presenting Sky News and is now one of ITV’s key anchors covering big events such as The ITV’s Leader’s Debate and The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. She remains grounded in composure in every story she covers yet still has that hint of style that many presenters lack on the news.
3. Huw ‘When’s My Cue’ Edwards
Huw is one of the highest paid Welsh people on television, but that isn’t why he’s on this list. His stern, unflinching delivery of the stories he covers has the audience hanging on every word. This must be why he's the BBC’s lead presenter for major breaking news in the UK... or maybe it's just his permanently furrowed brow.
2. Krishnan ‘News Guru’ –Murty
When I was a student, my housemate and I trolled Krishnan on Twitter saying his delivery was ‘a bit off’ while he was reading the Channel 4 news. To our surprise, he put us in our place by typing a response to the tweet on his laptop whilst continuing with the live show. Needless to say, he wasn’t a bit off. A man dedicated to his craft who can’t even be swayed by an angry Quentin Tarantino.
1. George ‘The Messiah’ Alagiah
How can a man talk about genocide and disease, giving it the sincere attention it deserves, yet still leave you feeling comfortable enough to fall asleep? I’m not sure, but George Alagiah manages it. The OBE holder has been the presenter of BBC News at 6 for 15 years and counting, and we hope the father-figure of the BBC has many more years to come. How else will we be able to sleep at night?