Female Newsreader Mishal Husain Joins Today Show

Mishal Hussain, The Today Show's new newsreader

(Image credit: Rex)

Mishal Husain is the only the second female newsreader to join the BBC Radio 4 Show since it began in 1957

Mishal Hussain has joined BBC Radio 4's Today Show in a groundbreaking move for the news industry. The newsreader has become only the second woman on the show's panel in its 55-year history.

Director-General of the BBC Tony Hall announced his decision to readdress the gender balance in a statement, saying: 'It is such great news that Mishal will be joining the Today programme. She is a first-rate journalist who will be an excellent addition to what is already a very strong team.

'I am also particularly pleased that her appointment means there will be another female voice on the programme, which I believe is extremely important.'

When Lord Hall took up his new position as the head of the BBC in April, he said: 'Improving the gender balance in our programming has been a priority for me since I returned to the BBC. I'm keen to see more women in key presenting and backstage roles as we move forward.'

The Today Show has long been criticised for its lack of female newsreaders. Sarah Montague only joined the show in 2002, alongside Evan Davis, James Naughtie, John Humphrys and Justin Webb. Mishal is also the show's first ever Asian host.

She said: 'I have long been an admirer of Today and am delighted to have the opportunity to join the team. The programme has unparalleled influence across BBC News and on our national conversation and I am looking forward to being part of it.'

Congrats, Mishal!