Key Highlights
- Cathy Newman will join Sky News in the coming months to lead a new flagship political programme.
- Newman brings nearly two decades of experience in political and investigative journalism, including major exclusives and investigations.
- The appointment comes as Sky News aims to strengthen its political coverage under its 2030 strategy.
- Newman will present a dedicated podcast and work on long-form investigations and documentaries.
Appointment of Cathy Newman at Sky News
Sky News has announced the appointment of award-winning journalist and broadcaster Cathy Newman, who will take up her role in the coming months. Known for her fearless interviews, agenda-setting investigations, and a string of major exclusives, Newman joins the newsroom to lead their flagship 7 o’clock daily politics slot.
Background on Cathy Newman
Newman’s career spans nearly two decades in political and investigative journalism. She made history as the first female main presenter of Channel 4 News after eight years at the Financial Times, where she became known for her fearless interviews and major investigations. Her work has covered some of the most high-profile political and legal stories, including an eight-year investigation into the most prolific abuser in the Church of England, barrister John Smyth; sexual harassment claims involving Liberal Democrat peer Lord Rennard; and an investigation that led to a 17-year prison sentence for British sex offender Simon Harris.
Strategic Move by Sky News
The appointment of Newman underscores Sky News’s commitment to strengthening its political coverage under their 2030 strategy. Her role will be fully cross-platform, encompassing presenting a dedicated podcast and contributing across Sky News online and social media output. Additionally, Newman will continue to produce original investigative journalism, which will form a key part of the evolution of the 7pm slot and Sky News’s 2030 premium strategy.
Newman’s appointment is also significant as it brings a clear, engaging style that audiences trust. David Rhodes, Executive Chairman of Sky News, expressed excitement over Newman’s joining, stating: “Cathy has broken some of Britain’s biggest stories and brings a clear, engaging style that audiences trust and we’re delighted to welcome her to Sky News.”
Impact on Sky News’s Line-Up
Newman joins an already formidable political line-up at Sky News, including Beth Rigby, Sam Coates, Trevor Phillips, and Sophy Ridge. The addition of Newman will undoubtedly enhance the network’s coverage, bringing a wealth of experience to their daily politics slot.
Speaking about her new role, Newman said: “I’m thrilled to be joining the incredible, multi-award-winning Sky News team. There couldn’t be a more exhilarating time to return to Westminster, and I’m hugely looking forward to bringing in exclusive interviews and investigations on a brand new programme, and launching a podcast too.”
While Newman will miss her talented Channel 4 News colleagues, she remains excited about the new opportunities that lie ahead. As Mary Shelley once wrote: “the beginning is always today.” And I can’t wait to begin again.”
Conclusion
The appointment of Cathy Newman at Sky News marks a significant development in the network’s political coverage strategy, bringing with it a blend of experience and innovation that will undoubtedly benefit viewers across various platforms. As Sky News continues to evolve under its 2030 plan, Newman’s expertise will be crucial in driving the network forward.
