Steffan Powell named Naga Munchetty’s new 5 Live Breakfast co-host

BBC Radio 5 Live has confirmed that Welsh broadcaster Steffan Powell will join Naga Munchetty as the new co-host of its flagship Breakfast programme, the Mirror reported ^[1]. The appointment marks a significant shift for the station’s morning schedule, with Powell stepping into the full-time role from January 2027.

The Independent reported ^[2] that the announcement follows the decision by current co-hosts Rachel Burden and Rick Edwards to step down, having announced their departure in July. Powell, who is currently a familiar voice to listeners through his Friday and Sunday Breakfast appearances, expressed his enthusiasm for the promotion. "I'm delighted, thrilled, excited," Powell said, noting that 5 Live holds a "special place" in his heart as it inspired his training as a journalist.

Powell described working alongside Munchetty as a privilege, calling her a "genuine legend of British journalism." He promised to put listeners first and help them make sense of complex global issues. "There are some impressively large shoes to fill, but I'm excited about the challenge," he added. Munchetty shared her excitement on social media, posting "I'm SO excited about this!" to congratulate her new partner.

Richard Maddock, Head of BBC Radio 5 Live, praised Powell’s "sharp journalistic instincts" and ability to connect with audiences across the UK, according to the Mirror ^[1]. Maddock stated that Powell brings warmth and intelligence to his work, making him an ideal fit to lead the programme into its next chapter. Powell’s career spans news, politics, and sport, having previously spent eight years at BBC Radio 1’s Newsbeat and working with Welsh channel S4C.

The new Breakfast show will launch in mid-January 2027, following the final broadcasts by Burden and Edwards in December. As reported by The Independent ^[2], Burden will move to present a new mid-morning programme from 11am to 2pm, while Edwards will continue presenting Fighting Talk on Saturdays and contribute to sports coverage, including the Football Daily podcast. This strategic reshuffle aims to refresh the station’s morning lineup while retaining the expertise of its veteran presenters.