Sir Trevor McDonald OBE

Legendary ITN Diplomatic Correspondent & Broadcaster, Presenter of News at Ten, Knighted for Services to Journalism, & BAFTA Fellowship Recipient.

Sir Trevor McDonald’s Biography:

Sir Trevor McDonald OBE is one of the most esteemed and recognisable figures in British broadcasting, whose career in journalism spans over five decades. Known for his gravitas, unflappable delivery, and profound journalistic integrity, he is widely regarded as a media pioneer and one of the most trusted news anchors in British history. His career began in the Caribbean in the early 1960s, working as a reporter and newsreader for Radio Trinidad before joining the BBC World Service in London in 1969. In 1973, he achieved a historic milestone by becoming ITN’s first Black reporter, covering major domestic and international stories, including the Troubles in Northern Ireland.

His commitment to international affairs was solidified in 1982 when he was appointed ITN’s Diplomatic Correspondent. This high-stakes role took him to political hotspots and conflict zones across the globe, where he reported on monumental events. His reporting highlights include covering the historic release of Nelson Mandela and conducting a renowned exclusive interview with Saddam Hussein on the eve of the Gulf War. Leveraging this extensive experience, Trevor became the sole presenter of ITV’s flagship News at Ten in 1992, a position that cemented him as the definitive face of British news.

Beyond the news desk, Sir Trevor became a leading figure in current affairs and documentary programming. From 1999 to 2007, he hosted ITV’s prime-time show, Tonight with Trevor McDonald. He has also fronted numerous acclaimed documentaries, demonstrating his ability to handle complex and sensitive subjects with both empathy and journalistic rigour. Recent notable productions include Inside Death Row, The Mafia with Trevor McDonald, Fred and Rose West: The Real Story, and The Killing of PC Harper: A Wife’s Story. Furthermore, he co-presented Has George Floyd Changed Britain? and was featured in Pride of Britain: A Windrush Special.

His distinguished service to journalism and broadcasting has been formally recognised with the highest national honours. He was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE), received a Knighthood in 1999, and was awarded the prestigious BAFTA Fellowship for his outstanding contribution to television. Today, Sir Trevor McDonald remains a highly sought-after event host and keynote speaker, leveraging his eloquence, warmth, and unparalleled insights into communication, leadership, and media pioneering.

Why Hire Sir Trevor McDonald?

Sir Trevor McDonald brings unparalleled gravitas and trust to any event. He offers authoritative insights, drawn from decades as a pioneering news anchor, covering global crises and interviewing world leaders. Clients hire him for his eloquence, expertise in crisis communication, and his ability to host high-profile awards and keynotes.

Sir Trevor McDonald’s Career Highlights:

Below showcases Sir Trevor McDonald’s inspirational career highlights that influenced her career throughout journalism:

• 2025 – Featured in Nationwide’s “The Big Nationwide Thank You” campaign.
• 2024 – Delivered a keynote talk at the University of Roehampton on journalism’s role in society.
• 2023 – Presented Pride of Britain: A Windrush Special.
• 2022 – Hosted The Killing of PC Harper: A Wife’s Story documentary.
• 2021 – Co-presented Has George Floyd Changed Britain? with Charlene White.
• 2021 – Joined Classic FM as a presenter and hosted Countdown for Channel 4’s Black to Front initiative.
• 2011 – Awarded the BAFTA Fellowship for outstanding contribution to television.
• 1999 – Received a Knighthood for services to journalism.
• 1999 – Hosted ITV’s prime-time current affairs show, Tonight with Trevor McDonald.
• 1992 – Became sole presenter of ITV’s flagship News at Ten.
• 1992 – Appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE).
• 1990 – Conducted an exclusive interview with Nelson Mandela following his release from prison.
• 1982 – Appointed ITN’s Diplomatic Correspondent, covering global conflict zones.
• 1973 – Became ITN’s first Black reporter in the UK.
• 1969 – Joined the BBC World Service in London.
• 1960 – Began his broadcasting career in Trinidad (Radio Trinidad and Trinidad Television).