Kay Burley, a veteran British journalist known for her extensive work at Sky News, shares her insights on navigating a male-dominated industry. She reflects on the challenges of sexism and ageism in television, revealing how her accent shaped her career. Burley discusses her passion for storytelling and the importance of community in journalism. She also offers candid advice on negotiating pay and building resilience against online criticism, all while reminiscing about her unforgettable journey in broadcasting.
Kay Burley's journey in journalism illustrates the importance of perseverance and confidence in overcoming gender and class barriers in a male-dominated field.
In her next career phase, Burley emphasizes the need for greater representation and support for older women in media, challenging stereotypes about aging.
Deep dives
Kay Burley's Journey in Journalism
Kay Burley's career in journalism began at a young age when she left school at 17 to work for a local newspaper. Encouraged by her English literature teacher, she pursued her passion for storytelling and quickly wrote to numerous newspapers until one finally hired her. This determination to succeed in a field traditionally dominated by men highlights her resilience, as she broke into broadcasting at a time when few female presenters were visible on screens. Burley's journey exemplifies the significance of perseverance and confidence in overcoming initial challenges and finding a place in the competitive media landscape.
The Impact of Gender and Class
Burley reflects on the challenges she faced as a woman in journalism during the early stages of her career, describing instances of sexism and class discrimination. She acknowledges that having no university degree often led others to underestimate her abilities, but she emphasized her strong work ethic and determination to prove them wrong. This experience not only shaped her own path but also highlighted the broader context of gender inequality and class issues that persist within the industry. By sharing her story, Burley sheds light on the importance of representation for women and individuals from diverse backgrounds in media.
Embracing Change and Future Aspirations
As Burley transitions into the next phase of her career, she expresses a commitment to supporting older women in broadcasting, especially regarding topics like menopause that are often overlooked. She believes it's vital to challenge society's perception of aging women and assert that they remain capable and valuable in their roles. Furthermore, Burley indicates her desire to continue evolving in the industry and to potentially enter politics, showcasing her ambition to influence change beyond journalism. Her outlook emphasizes that age should not limit one's opportunities or contributions, particularly in the ever-evolving media landscape.
Kay Burley announced her retirement from Sky News this week, after 36 years, having presented more than a million minutes of live television news – more than any other presenter in the world.
To mark the occasion, here’s a special edition of Women With Balls – from the archives – when Kay Burley joined Katy Balls in 2019 to talk about how she ‘knocked the rough edges’ off her accent, her love of Jane Fonda, and why the BBC couldn’t afford her these days.
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