BBC Royal Correspondent Nicholas Witchell – who was once branded ‘awful’ by King Charles III – has announced his retirement from the broadcaster, after almost 50 years.
The 70-year-old journalist has worked for the BBC since 1976, beginning as one of the first readers of the BBC News at Six before moving to the morning slot in 1989.
Before becoming the royal and diplomatic correspondent in 1998, Witchell’s role at the Beeb saw him announce the deaths of Lord Mountbatten in 1979 and Princess Diana in 1997.
But despite coverage during reporting after the Queen’s death and royal weddings, the royals haven’t always been his biggest fan.
In 2005, then-Prince Charles was caught insulting Witchell on camera, when the journalist questioned his sons on what they thought about his upcoming wedding to Camilla.
Charles was heard saying: ‘I can’t bear that man. He’s so awful. He really is.’
The microphones awkwardly picked up that hilarious gaffe, and the pair have met during several other interviews over the years.
Recounting the incident in 2014, Witchell said: ‘There has never been an apology, and why should there be?
‘He was probably quite right. You know, awful man.
‘You could take the view it was the best thing that happened to me, because it showed that it is our job as BBC journalists to report fairly and accurately, but not to seek approval. We’re not there to be liked.’
After 47 fantastic years we will be bidding farewell to Royal Correspondent Nicholas Witchell, who will be retiring next year.
Nick has reported from across the world and presented key BBC News shows.
Thank you for your remarkable service! pic.twitter.com/yq2jzAhhAq
His retirement has now been confirmed by the BBC, who announced on Tuesday: ‘After 47 fantastic years we will be bidding farewell to Royal Correspondent Nicholas Witchell, who will be retiring next year.
‘Nick has reported from across the world and presented key BBC News shows.
‘Thank you for your remarkable service!’
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