Sir Trevor McDonald on newsroom life, tough stories and world leaders

The legendary news broadcaster opens up to Jenni Murray on Saga’s new podcast, Experience is Everything.

Sir Trevor McDonald and Dame Jenni Murray in the Experience is Everything podcast studio

By Kate Randall | Published - 29 Dec 2025

For many of us, Sir Trevor McDonald is the news. Thanks to more than 30 years at ITN – over 15 of them as the main news anchor – and his Tonight with Trevor McDonald programmes, Sir Trevor has been there through all the big stories, good and bad.

Whether it was reporting on war and famine, a shocking murder or an uplifting story, his familiar and reassuring voice became a staple in living rooms across the country.

At 86, Sir Trevor has now taken more of a back seat in the broadcasting world, but as he explains to Jenni Murray on Saga’s new podcast, Experience is Everything, he will always be addicted to being a journalist.

“It’s genuine, it’s exciting and it’s addictive,” he tells Jenni. “And for all sorts of odd things – when big things are happening, you feel you’re involved, you feel you’re in the middle of it. You’re not, of course, you’ll be on the periphery trying to make sense of it and to report it. But you do get the excitement.”

However, Sir Trevor admits his work and having to be away from home so much had a big impact on his family life – he has been married twice and has three children. The Saga columnist also speaks out how hard it was to distance himself from heartbreaking news stories and why he wouldn’t want to interview President Trump.

“I’m not too sure I would look forward to the prospect of that,” he says. “I don’t quite understand where he comes from on many things.”

Hear more from Sir Trevor on Experience is Everything, as well as listening to other episodes.

Listen now

Written by: Kate Randall

Kate Randall is Saga Magazine's Digital News Editor. Kate has more than 20 years experience in print and digital journalism and specialises in news, entertainment and lifestyle.
In her spare time, she loves trying out the latest exercise trends and fitting in as many holidays as she can.

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