Gareth Barlow

Gareth Barlow is a Sky News journalist and broadcaster known for his ability to deliver clarity and authority during breaking news, from covering the first day of Russia's invasion of Ukraine to becoming the first UK broadcaster to announce the death of Pope Francis. His unconventional journey from university dropout to first-generation farmer, butcher, and award-winning news anchor reflects a career built on resilience, bold choices, and authenticity. Recognised in the Radio Academy's 30 Under 30 awards and a former BBC World Service presenter, he now anchors national rolling news programmes on Sky News, delivering live coverage across politics, conflict, and major global events. Gareth equips audiences with practical insights into resilience, self-belief, and career progression, sharing candid reflections on mental health, growing up gay in rural England, and navigating uncertainty with determination, empowering people to embrace their unique path and thrive in competitive environments.

When Gareth Barlow sold his Xbox as a teenager to buy six sheep, few could have predicted the trajectory that would follow. From first-generation farmer and butcher to award-winning broadcaster, his career has taken him from the fields of North Yorkshire to the heart of breaking news on Sky News, where he anchors national rolling news programmes and has become the first UK broadcaster to announce the death of Pope Francis. His journey from university dropout to trusted newsreader covering global crises, political upheaval, and historic moments reflects a career built on bold decisions, relentless determination, and an unwavering commitment to authenticity.

Gareth's route into broadcasting began far from the studio. Raised in North Yorkshire and educated at St Peter's School, York, he left Durham University after briefly studying zoology to pursue farming full-time. By 2012, he had earned recognition as Outstanding Newcomer to Food and Drink at the Deliciously Yorkshire Awards, supplying Michelin-starred restaurants and farm shops across the UK. After training as a butcher and slaughterman, he transitioned into media, joining BBC Radio York in 2014 to host Yorkshire Farming whilst contributing to BBC One's Countryfile and BBC Radio 4's Farming Today. His work took him to the BBC World Service in 2017, where he presented documentary programmes including CrowdScience and The Food Chain, earning recognition in the Radio Academy's 30 Under 30 awards. He joined Sky News in 2024, where he now anchors morning and midday rolling news programmes, delivering clarity and authority during breaking stories across politics, conflict, and major global events. From covering the first day of Russia's invasion of Ukraine to reporting from earthquake zones and the Middle East, his career reflects persistence, adaptability, and a refusal to follow convention.

Gareth speaks openly about his experiences with mental health, growing up gay in a small village, and the importance of resilience and authenticity in building a career that stands out. In his speaking engagements, he shares how unconventional choices and bold risks can open doors, from chasing opportunities relentlessly to thriving under pressure in competitive industries. Audiences gain practical insights into endurance, self-belief, and the value of speaking out, alongside a candid look at life behind the scenes of live television and the realities of delivering news to millions. Whether addressing wellbeing, personal development, or career progression, Gareth equips people with the confidence to embrace their own unique path and the tools to navigate uncertainty with honesty and determination.