Dermot Murnaghan’s ‘Legends of News’ Explores Broadcast Journalism’s Golden Era

In an era where digital media dominates, the allure of traditional broadcast journalism remains undiminished. Recognizing this, veteran journalist Dermot Murnaghan has introduced a new weekly program, Legends of News, on Radio News Hub. This series aims to revisit the pivotal moments and stories that have shaped the landscape of broadcast journalism.

Dermot Murnaghan hosts 'Legends of News' on Radio News Hub, engaging in conversations about the history of broadcast journalism

Contents hide

1 Dermot Murnaghan: A Pillar of British Journalism

2 The Genesis of ‘Legends of News’

3 Episode One: A Conversation with John Sergeant

4 Radio News Hub: The Platform Behind the Program

5 The Significance of ‘Legends of News’ in Today’s Media Landscape

6 Future Episodes and Expectations

7 Conclusion

Dermot Murnaghan: A Pillar of British Journalism

Dermot Murnaghan’s illustrious career spans over four decades, during which he has become a household name in British journalism. Born in Barnstaple, Devon, in 1957, Murnaghan’s journey in journalism began after completing his education at the University of Sussex and a postgraduate course in Journalism at City University London. His professional trajectory includes significant roles at Channel 4, ITV, BBC, and Sky News.

Career Highlights:

Channel 4: Started as a researcher and later became a reporter for The Business Programme.
ITV: Presented the ITV Lunchtime News and News at Ten, and was the first to report the death of Princess Diana in 1997.
BBC: Co-presented BBC Breakfast from 2002 to 2007 and was a regular stand-in on the BBC Six O’Clock News and BBC Ten O’Clock News.
Sky News: Joined in 2007, hosting shows like Murnaghan and Sky News Tonight. He signed off from Sky News in February 2023 after nearly 16 years.

Murnaghan’s departure from daily broadcasting was influenced by personal health challenges, leading him to explore new avenues to share his experiences and insights.

The Genesis of ‘Legends of News’

Legends of News is more than just a program; it’s a tribute to the golden age of broadcast journalism. Produced by Sassy+, the series features in-depth conversations with prominent figures in journalism, delving into the stories and events that have defined the industry.

In discussing the inspiration behind the series, Murnaghan stated:

“My personal motivation for launching Legends has been stepping off the daily news wheel myself after 40 odd years before the mast and now fighting a health battle. Instead of attempting a probably little read memoir, I decided to speak to those Legends – the colleagues and rivals that I’ve worked with over those decades – and tease out the stories of the mad world of broadcast news when it was in its pomp before it is subsumed by the new modes of communication.”

Episode One: A Conversation with John Sergeant

The inaugural episode features an engaging discussion with John Sergeant, a renowned political correspondent known for his extensive coverage of British politics.

John Sergeant’s Background:

BBC: Served as the chief political correspondent from 1992 to 2000.
ITN: Held the position of Political Editor from 2000 to 2002.
Notable Moments: Known for his coverage of major political events and his memorable appearance on Strictly Come Dancing, which endeared him to a broader audience.

In the episode, Sergeant shares anecdotes from his career, providing listeners with a behind-the-scenes look at the world of political journalism.

Radio News Hub: The Platform Behind the Program

Established in 2014, Radio News Hub is a UK-based provider of news bulletins for radio stations. With a commitment to delivering timely and accurate news, the platform has become a trusted source for over 300 stations.

Key Features:

Content: Offers 1-minute and 2-minute bulletins covering national and international news, sport, business, and entertainment.
Reach: Broadcasts content on digital stations like News Radio UK and provides special live programming for events such as elections and major sports tournaments.
Innovation: In 2025, launched a worldwide hourly news service, delivering news to radio stations in their native languages.

The collaboration with Murnaghan for Legends of News aligns with the platform’s mission to provide diverse and engaging content to its audience.

The Significance of ‘Legends of News’ in Today’s Media Landscape

In an age where digital platforms dominate, Legends of News serves as a bridge between traditional journalism and contemporary media consumption habits. By offering both radio broadcasts and podcast versions, the program caters to a wide audience, ensuring accessibility and convenience.

Why It Matters:

Preservation of History: Captures firsthand accounts of significant events, preserving them for future generations.
Educational Value: Provides insights into the evolution of journalism, offering valuable lessons for aspiring journalists.
Engagement: Encourages discussions about the role of media in society, fostering a deeper understanding among listeners.

Future Episodes and Expectations

While the first episode sets a high standard, future installments promise to delve into various facets of journalism, featuring conversations with other notable figures in the industry. Listeners can anticipate stories that shed light on the challenges, triumphs, and transformations within the world of news reporting.

Conclusion

Dermot Murnaghan’s Legends of News is a timely and significant addition to the media landscape, offering a platform for seasoned journalists to share their experiences and insights. As the series unfolds, it will undoubtedly become a valuable resource for understanding the intricacies of broadcast journalism and its enduring impact on society.