Samantha Simmonds

Samantha Simmonds is a highly respected newsreader, television presenter, and journalist, currently anchoring for BBC News. With a broadcasting career spanning more than two decades, she is recognised for her authoritative delivery, calm under pressure, and sharp journalistic instincts that have made her a trusted figure in breaking news environments.

Born in Bradford, England, Samantha comes from a diverse background with an Iranian mother and a Yorkshire father. She was raised in Alwoodley, Leeds, where she attended Leeds Girls’ High School. She later earned a BA from Liverpool University and went on to complete a postgraduate diploma in broadcast journalism at City University, London. During her student years, she even made an appearance on ITV's Blind Date, adding a fun twist to her early media exposure.

Her journalism career began in local Yorkshire radio before moving to London to work as a producer for Channel Five News. Samantha went on to become a presenter for BBC Breakfast and spent time reporting for BBC London News.

In 2005, she joined Sky News, where she became one of the channel’s main anchors, notably being the first British journalist to break the news of Michael Jackson’s death. After a successful run at Sky, she transitioned back to the BBC in 2017, where she continues to appear across BBC One, BBC World News, and the BBC News Channel.

Known for her relatable and informative approach, she frequently speaks on subjects such as fake news, journalism, and balancing career and family. She also co-hosts a podcast titled It’s a Grown-Up Life, where she explores the challenges of adulthood with honesty and humour.

To book Samantha for your next event, please call 020 3500 3331 or email info@primeperformers.co.uk