Emma Barnett named as new host of BBC’s Today programme

The current Woman’s Hour presenter will replace Martha Kearney, who recently announced her departure

Emma Barnett has been confirmed as a new presenter on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme.
The current host of Woman’s Hour will move to the BBC’s flagship current affairs programme, following speculation about her future.
It was rumoured she was set to join the Today team after Martha Kearney, 66, announced that she would be leaving the station after the general election.
Barnett, 39, said of her change of role: “We are living in volatile times where sometimes even asking a question can seem risky – wrongly so.
“My ambition on the Today programme is to keep asking the questions that listeners want answers to – as well as raising many smiles along the way – while armed with a very strong cup of tea.”
Deborah Turness, chief executive of BBC News, says: “Emma is a formidable, fearless and ferociously intelligent journalist, and I’m delighted that she will be showcasing her considerable talents across all of BBC News’ platforms.”
Barnett’s switch to the Today programme leaves an opening for the role of Woman’s Hour presenter.
Barnett said that her time on the show “means a great deal to me, and I want to thank the team and our mighty army of listeners for how much we have shared – the joy, wisdom, sorrow and sometimes sheer rage”.