John MacKay has confirmed that he will be leaving STV in spring next year.
After 31 year at the broadcaster, he said that he would be “closing his news presenting chapter” and focus on his writing. He’s already had 6 books published and said he was working on a follow-up to Scottish best-seller The Road Dance, which was adapted into a film.
“It has been a privilege to bring Scotland’s most popular news programme into so many homes for so long. Scotland has changed dramatically over the last three decades and I am proud to have been part of the STV News teams reporting on that transformation,” he explained.
“Writing has always been an enjoyable diversion for me and I feel the time is now right to develop that further. Following the success of my film ‘The Road Dance’, I have written a script for a sequel and we are hopeful of that going into production next year. In addition, there is the possibility of a TV adaptation of another of my novels and I am researching a new book. These projects will require my full commitment.
“I know I leave STV News in the capable hands of my colleagues to deliver the news programme our viewers value so much.”
He joined STV in 1994 as a reporter on the evening news programme, then known as Scotland Today. Within 4 years he was promoted to co-anchor, alongside Shereen Nanjiani and there he’s remained.
He’s also hosted current affairs show, Scotland Today, since its launch in 2011, sharing presenting duties with Rona Dougall.
“John is one of Scotland’s best loved and well-known presenters and we’re incredibly proud that he’s been part of our channel for over 30 years. He is an exceptional presenter and journalist, with an outstanding professionalism and commitment to delivering high quality news for viewers throughout his career,” added Bobby Hain, STV’s MD of Audience (News, Audio and Regulatory)
“I know that I speak on behalf of everyone at STV when I say that he will be very much missed when he leaves us next year. I’d like to thank him for his commitment to STV over the past 31 years and wish him all the best with his next chapter.”
During his career he’s guided audiences through everything from the creation of the Scottish Parliament to the Independence Referendum, the global pandemic and the death of the Queen.
He’s also interviewed everyone from Donald Trump to Sir Billy Connolly.
