July 31st: Today's Feature

July

Clive Augustus Myrie, a prominent English journalist, newsreader, and presenter, was born on 25 August 1964 in Farnworth, Lancashire, England. His Jamaican immigrant parents arrived in the UK in the 1960s, seeking better opportunities and a brighter future for their family.

Early Life

Growing up in a working-class family, Myrie's upbringing was filled with stories of resilience and hard work. His mother, a skilled seamstress who worked for the renowned Mary Quant, instilled in him the value of dedication and craftsmanship, while his father, a factory worker, showed him the importance of perseverance and determination in the face of challenges. During the war, Clive's uncle Cecil served as a munitions driver in the Royal Air Force.

Despite the hardships his family faced, Myrie excelled in his education, attending Hayward Grammar School and later Bolton Sixth Form College, where he completed his A-levels. His academic journey culminated in a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Sussex in 1985, marking the beginning of his illustrious career in journalism and broadcasting.

Career

Myrie embarked on his journey with the BBC back in 1987, starting off as a trainee local radio reporter under the Corporation's esteemed graduate journalism programme. After a brief stint with Independent Radio News, he made his way back to the BBC in 1988, where he began his reporting career with Radio Bristol before moving on to Points West, and eventually contributing to both BBC Television and Radio News.

Transitioning into the role of a BBC foreign correspondent in 1996, Myrie's career took him to over 90 countries, covering a wide array of global events. From serving as the Tokyo correspondent to later becoming the Los Angeles correspondent, his experiences were diverse and enriching. His tenure as the BBC Asia Correspondent and Paris correspondent further solidified his reputation as a seasoned journalist with a keen eye for detail.

Throughout his illustrious career, Myrie has been at the forefront of major historical events, including the impeachment of U.S. President Bill Clinton, as well as the conflicts in Kosovo, Afghanistan, and Iraq. His dedication to reporting the truth was evident during the invasion of Iraq in 2003, where he embedded himself with 40 Commando Royal Marines, facing the perils of war firsthand. The gravity of his assignment meant that he had to pen a heartfelt "goodbye" letter to his loved ones, showcasing the risks journalists often undertake in pursuit of delivering news to the world.

Racism & Support

Myrie has unfortunately endured a distressing ordeal of racial abuse, which has not only included horrifying death threats but also a deeply hurtful incident involving a card adorned with a gorilla on the front. The card shockingly conveyed the message, "We don't want people like you on our TV screens." This despicable act of racism left Myrie feeling “shaken up”. In a significant turn of events, justice was served when Ian Hargreaves, a 66-year-old man from Leeds, was traced and sentenced to 18 months in prison by Leeds Crown Court in October 2019. Myrie shared that Hargreaves had sent death threats which involved “talking about the kind of bullet that he’d use in the gun to kill me” and had been found guilty of sending electronic death threats not only to Myrie but also to motorsport commentator Jack Nicholls. Myrie said in a victim statement that he'd found the threats "deeply troubling."

Fast forward to June 2024, and Myrie found himself as a distinguished guest on BBC Radio 4's esteemed show, Desert Island Discs. This appearance provided a platform for Myrie to share his personal musical preferences and delve into the significance of his chosen songs. Among his selections were the timeless jazz piece "Long, Long Summer” Myrie's appearance on this renowned radio program celebrated his achievements and contributions to the world of broadcasting.

On Desert Island Discs, Myrie shared "I didn't want to be seen as a black journalist," he said on Desert Island Discs.

"I wanted to be a journalist who just happens to be black. I didn't want the BBC to fall into lazy thinking, which was so easy at the time."

He added: "Notting Hill Carnival - send the black guy, riot out on the street in some inner city area - send the black guy. I didn't want that.

"...I didn't want my colour to define who I am, and the BBC understood that.”

Myrie acknowledged the support he received from the BBC in understanding his perspective and ensuring that his work was not defined by his colour. This recognition of his individuality and professional capabilities allowed him to pursue his career without being constrained by racial expectations, ultimately leading to significant opportunities such as co-hosting the BBC's election night coverage.

Myrie is set to co-host the BBC's election night coverage for the first time, taking over from Huw Edwards, who resigned and left the corporation.

Honours & Legacy

Myrie's exceptional work as a journalist has garnered him numerous accolades and nominations throughout his career. One of his most notable achievements was his role in the BAFTA-nominated BBC team that covered the devastating Mozambique floods in 2000. His dedication to reporting on the ground and bringing attention to the plight of those affected by the natural disaster earned him well-deserved recognition.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to journalism, Myrie was honoured with the prestigious Bayeux-Calvados Award for war correspondents. This award specifically acknowledged his exceptional reporting on ethnic violence in Borneo, showcasing his commitment to shedding light on important global issues. Myrie's ability to delve into complex topics and present them in a compelling manner truly sets him apart as a journalist.

Over the years, Myrie's remarkable achievements have continued to be acknowledged by esteemed institutions. In 2016, Staffordshire University bestowed upon him an honorary doctorate, recognising his significant impact in the field of journalism. The University of Sussex followed suit in 2019, awarding him the esteemed title of "Doctor of the University."

In July 2023, Myrie was appointed as the Pro Chancellor of the University of Bolton, expressing his pride in the institution by stating that it is one of the most socially inclusive universities in the UK, located in his hometown. He emphasised the importance of diversity in education, highlighting that in a globalised world where connections between trade, commerce, and culture are increasingly intertwined, the experience of studying in such a diverse environment will undoubtedly be a valuable asset for the future.

Most recently, in 2022, the University of Bolton honoured Myrie with an honorary degree of Doctor of Social Science, commending his exceptional contributions to broadcasting, television, and society as a whole. These accolades serve as a testament to Myrie's unwavering dedication and his ability to captivate audiences with his insightful reporting.