Anna Foster has been announced as one of the new main presenters of BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, replacing Mishal Husain who departed in December. Foster, a former Middle East correspondent, has a strong background in journalism, having previously presented BBC Radio 5 Live Drive, Radio 1’s Newsbeat, and the corporation’s flagship TV news bulletins.
One of the key changes with Foster joining the Today programme is the decision to broadcast many editions from Salford, reflecting the BBC’s commitment to better representing regions beyond London. In a statement, Foster expressed her excitement about the opportunity to present such a renowned and influential program, highlighting her passion for creating engaging and agenda-setting radio.
Apart from her role on Today, Foster will also continue to be involved in leading the BBC’s coverage of foreign news, ensuring viewers will still see her on major TV news bulletins. BBC’s station controller, Mohit Bakaya, emphasized Foster’s valuable international reporting experience, which is crucial in meeting the needs of Radio 4 listeners.
Foster’s extensive experience in foreign reporting includes covering significant events such as the Turkish earthquake, the Israel-Gaza war, the Ebola outbreak, the famine in South Sudan, and the conflict in Ukraine. Her appointment as a main presenter on Today follows a period where several correspondents and presenters, including Simon Jack and Jonny Dymond, have filled in since Husain’s departure. The move to appoint a female host to maintain gender balance on the program was praised by the Sunday Times, alongside existing presenters Emma Barnett, Justin Webb, Amol Rajan, and Nick Robinson
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