John MacKay, a prominent figure in Scottish journalism, will present the news for the last time after over three decades with STV. On Friday, he will host the STV News at Six, marking a significant moment in his career and in Scottish broadcasting history.
Career Highlights of John MacKay
John MacKay joined STV in 1994 as a reporter for Scotland Today. He became the co-anchor of the evening news in 1998, partnering with Shereen Nanjiani. Over the years, he became a household name, known for his signature introduction, “I’m John MacKay.”
Major Events Covered
MacKay has been at the forefront of pivotal moments in Scotland’s history. His reporting has included:
- The establishment of the Scottish Parliament
- The Independence Referendum
- The COVID-19 pandemic
- The death of Queen Elizabeth II
Notable Interviews
Throughout his career, MacKay conducted interviews with notable figures, including:
- Former U.S. President Donald Trump
- Scottish comedian Sir Billy Connolly
- Singers Dolly Parton and James McAvoy
- Actors David Tennant and Will Ferrell
Future Projects and Farewell
John MacKay plans to focus on his writing after leaving STV. He has six published books and is currently working on several projects:
- A sequel to his film The Road Dance
- A potential TV adaptation of another novel
- A new book under development
He expressed gratitude for his lengthy career, saying, “It has been a privilege to bring Scotland’s most popular news programme into so many homes.” MacKay emphasized the changing landscape of Scotland during his tenure and the importance of transitioning to a new generation of journalists.
Industry Recognition
Bobby Hain, STV’s Managing Director of Audience (News, Audio, and Regulatory), praised MacKay as a beloved presenter. He acknowledged MacKay’s outstanding professionalism and contributions over his 31-year career. Hain stated that MacKay would be greatly missed, highlighting the high regard in which he is held.
As John MacKay prepares for his final broadcast, fans and colleagues alike celebrate his remarkable career and look forward to his upcoming creative pursuits.
