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Who is BBC Breakfast’s Ben Thompson?
Ben gives his reaction to the World Business Report being axed
BEN THOMPSON is a very familiar face to BBC viewers across the UK.
The presenter has enjoyed an impressive career so far which sees him often step in to host BBC Breakfast.
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Who is Ben Thompson?
Ben Thompson was born on August 12, 1981, in Burnley, England.
His career with the BBC goes way back and he actually first began working with the company in 2001 when he took on a role at Radio Wales in Cardiff.
While studying at university, Ben produced the network’s morning news programme, Good Morning Wales, and was then selected for a BBC Trainee Scheme.
After completing his degree in international business and French, and a postgraduate diploma in Broadcast Journalism, Ben moved to London and joined BBC News.
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Ben worked for a few years as a producer before moving in front of the camera, working as a correspondent in the Middle East and, later, New York.
The star describes himself as a northerner and traveller.
Ben is also a keen photographer and is interested in music and theatre.
What is Ben famous for?
Ben is best known for being a presenter on BBC Breakfast.
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He is known for stepping in to cover when the programme's main presenters are away from the show.
Ben is also known for co-hosting Business Live, the BBC's daily business programme.
BBC Breakfast star pens emotional goodbye to viewers live on air as beloved show is axed after 30 years
The programme is broadcast around the world on the BBC News Channel and BBC World News.
He also presented the World Business Report, but in May 2024 Ben revealed that the programme had been axed.
Speaking to the audience at home, he said: “Before we go, some news about us.
“After more than 30 years, we’re going to say goodbye to World Business Report.
"It’s had quite a few different looks over the years, but it’s time for a new look and a new name.
“Business Today is what we’ll be called from later today, all you need to know about money, markets, finance, tech, travel and trade.
“Business Today here, on BBC News. But for one final time, from me and the team, you’ve been watching World Business Report. Bye bye.”
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Is Ben married and does he have any children?
Ben is in a long term relationship but the pair are not married.
Ben and his partner Andy Roche have been in a relationship since 2011.
The couple often share sweet pictures with their followers on social media, including on Ben's 41st birthday in 2022.
You can see photos of the happy couple, and other snaps that Ben shares, at his Instagram handle @benthompsontv.
The pair celebrated their ten year anniversary in 2021 when Ben posted a sweet message saying: "Happy ten years @andyroche.
"Can't believe you've put up with me for ten actual whole years. Love you."
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When did Ben join BBC Breakfast?
Ben first joined BBC Breakfast as a producer, before beginning his stint as a presenter in 2011.
Before this, he had an extensive career working for different departments in the BBC.
Her first worked in front of the camera as a Middle East Business Correspondent in 2008.
Ben was based in Dubai for three years before returning to the UK to be the Business Presenter for the BBC News Channel.
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Following this, Ben went across the pond to become the BBC’s North America Business Correspondent where he was based in New York.
There, he covered Hurricane Sandy in 2012 and the US Presidential Elections.
Who are the current presenters of BBC Breakfast?
The flagship BBC show has had dozens of presenters during its impressive 40 years on air but the current stars are:
Jon Kay - Since 2022
Sally Nugent - Since 2021
Charlie Stayt - Since 2006
Naga Munchetty - Since 2014
Carol Kirkwood - Since 1997
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