BBC Breakfast’s Ben Thompson has bid a heartfelt farewell to his audience as the long-standing World Business News is axed after an impressive 30-year run. The seasoned host delivered the morning edition of the programme on Tuesday 7 May, where he announced that it was the show’s final broadcast.
“Before we go, some news about us,” Thompson shared with viewers. “After more than 30 years, we’re going to say goodbye to World Business Report. It’s had quite a few different looks over the years, but it’s time for a new look and a new name.
“Business Today is what we’ll be called from later today, all you need to know about money, markets, finance, tech, travel, and trade. Business Today here, on BBC News. But for one final time, from me and the team, you’ve been watching World Business Report. Bye-bye.”
The announcement clearly struck an emotional chord with Ben, and fans were swift to react on social media as the programme came to a close. “End of an era,” lamented one viewer. “Seems like yesterday I was pressing for you to race back to the Dubai office to make the 0830 WBR live.”
Another inquired, “I hope the theme song remains the same, Ben? ” eliciting a tearful emoji response from Thompson.
Tributes poured in from former colleagues too, including CNN’s Richard Quest who reminisced: “My gosh. So many years ago. And what brilliant broadcasting we did. (Making it up as we went along)” and BBC News presenter Maryam Roshiri who expressed: “What a fab show to have worked for! X.” (sic)
The BBC World Business Report inaugurated in 1995, was presented by a skillful cohort featuring Sally Bundock, Victoria Valentine, Samantha Simmonds, Alice Baxter, and Ben Boulos.
Every weekday saw business updates on BBC News and international channels with morning broadcasts at 5.30am, 6.30am and 7.45am, followed by later segments at 11.30am and 2.30pm.
Renowned presenter, Ben also confirmed the ending of the series over social media platform X on Sunday 5 May.
He punctuated his announcement with a collage of the varying logos used throughout the course of World Business Report.
His statement read: “After nearly 30 years, we’re saying goodbye to ‘World Business Report.’ It’s had a few different looks and more than a few different presenters. But it’s time for a change. Out with the old, and in with the err, old. ‘Business Today’ makes a welcome return to @BBCNews next week.”
