Jan Leeming: Where is the Newsreader Now?

Jan Leeming once stood as a familiar face across British television screens, delivering news with poise and authority. Over time, though, her path has taken many turns—some unexpected, some quietly impactful. Today, even as her high-profile broadcasting days have faded, she remains active, opinionated, and engaged with both public life and personal endeavors. Let’s delve into where the newsreader is now, what she’s up to, and what it all says about the cultural shifts in her world.

A Career of Firsts and Pivots

From her early beginnings, Jan Leeming charted her own path with confidence. She was the first female newsreader on television in Sydney in the 1960s, a bold breakthrough in a predominantly male industry . Returning to Britain, she joined Granada Television and later rose through roles on programs like Women Only, Pebble Mill at One, and radio’s Woman’s Hour .

Her defining moment came as a BBC newsreader from 1980 to 1987—a period that also saw her co-host the Eurovision Song Contest in 1982 . Twice voted TRIC Newsreader of the Year and awarded Television Personality of the Year, she left an imprint as both recognisable and respected .

Beyond news, she explored documentary filmmaking—most notably her research into WWII pilot René Mouchotte, which evolved into a BBC Inside Out episode and ITV talks, earning her a vice-presidency at the Yorkshire Air Museum .

From Screen to Stage and Conservation

Once out of the newsroom, Jan’s presence didn’t vanish—it diversified. She took on roles in pantomime (playing parts like Fairy Godmother in Cinderella), hosted TV series on crafts and gardening, and lent her voice to corporate videos and event hosting .

She also became deeply involved with wildlife and heritage causes. She has worked with cheetah conservation charities in South Africa, supported numerous veterans’ memorials, and served in roles like Patron of Animals SOS Sri Lanka and Assistant Guide at Canterbury Cathedral .

Spotlight on Recent Public Moments

Even into her 80s, Jan Leeming continues to attract attention—sometimes for her personal life, sometimes for her sharp commentary.

Considering a Sixth Marriage

On the Sunday Suddenly Single podcast, the 83‑year‑old revealed she’s open to a sixth marriage. She mentioned how her late fifth husband had once joked, “why not make it a baker’s half‑dozen?” She also revealed that she values a partner who maintains themselves—the discipline, she says, matters .

Reflections on Self-Worth and Heartbreak

Leeming shared that she once carried around a harsh, 17‑page letter from an ex who blamed her for everything—until she finally burned it. That cathartic gesture reflected a deeper shift. She reflected, “I’m a lot more sure of myself now than I was when I was young… Now I wouldn’t hang on if I were in a relationship and it wasn’t working.”

A Voice Slighted by Changing Norms

In a frank admission, Jan lamented that her Received Pronunciation accent seems to have sidelined her in today’s media climate. She tweeted that she’s “old, speak RP English and don’t tick the PC boxes,” shrugging that she’s “given up even trying” .

On Social Outings and Public Frustration

Most recently, in February 2026, Jan publicly criticized a noisy child at a posh hotel lunch, lamenting how family-friendly spaces seem to tolerate disruption with no regard for other patrons. “Perhaps this shows my age,” she conceded, but her complaint struck a nerve among others who feel the same way .

A Woman Still Engaged

It’s clear that Jan Leeming remains far from idle. Whether through vocal leadership in conservation, outspoken commentary on social etiquette, or candid reflections on aging and relationship resilience—she stays present, engaged, and unmistakably herself.

“Now I’m a lot more sure of myself… Now I wouldn’t hang on if I were in a relationship and it wasn’t working.”

That’s as true a statement of personal evolution as it gets—and it underscores her continued relevance long after the newsroom.

Conclusion

Jan Leeming’s journey from trailblazing newsreader to outspoken elder stateswoman tells a story beyond broadcasting. It’s about adaptability, finding new platforms in conservation, writing, public speaking—and, above all, staying real. Her recent conversations—from romantic openness to societal norms—remind us she’s still full of opinions and fire. Not seeking the spotlight, but owning wherever she stands.

FAQs

Who is Jan Leeming today?
An 84‑year‑old former BBC newsreader, documentarian, conservation advocate, and social commentator, still active in varied causes and artistic endeavors.

Is Jan Leeming remarried or dating?
She’s not remarried yet but has expressed openness to a sixth marriage and is reportedly dating, enjoying companionship and genuine conversation .

What is her documentary work about René Mouchotte?
After five years of research, she produced a BBC Inside Out episode on the WWII Free French pilot René Mouchotte and holds a vice‑presidency at the Yorkshire Air Museum .

Why does she say she’s stopped getting work?
She has stated that, with her Received Pronunciation accent, she “doesn’t tick the modern boxes” in today’s media, leading her to step back from pursuing such roles .

What is her latest public controversy?
In February 2026, she complained about poor behavior by children’s parents at a high‑end hotel lunch, sparking broader discussion on public decorum and aging perspectives .

Does she remain involved in charitable activities?
Yes—she continues her long‑standing support for wildlife conservation, war memorial groups, and heritage organizations, maintaining leadership roles across several causes .

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Jan Leeming may no longer be the face of evening news, but she continues to be a voice worth listening to.