Maryam Moshiri: Inspiring Journey of a British News Presenter with Iranian Roots
The Rise, Challenges, and Success of an Iranian-British Presenter at the BBC
Introduction
Maryam Moshiri is one of the most recognizable faces of international broadcasting today. Known for her professionalism, commanding presence, and unique blend of warmth and authority, she has established herself as a respected British news presenter. With her Iranian heritage and British upbringing, Maryam represents a dynamic mix of cultures, bringing diversity to one of the world’s most trusted news organizations, the BBC.
Over the years, Maryam has faced challenges, unexpected moments, and public scrutiny. Yet, she has also gained admiration for her ability to deliver hard news with precision, while occasionally revealing a lighter, more human side. Her journey is both inspiring and thought-provoking, making her a true example of resilience and versatility in global journalism.
Quick Bio
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Maryam Moshiri |
| Date of Birth | 9 June 1977 |
| Age | 48 years (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Tehran, Iran |
| Nationality | British (Iranian-British heritage) |
| Profession | British News Presenter, Journalist |
| Education | BA in Italian (UCL), Postgraduate Diploma in Broadcast Journalism (London College of Communication) |
| Languages | English, Italian, Persian (Farsi), some French |
| Husband | Jonathan Farmer |
| Children | Three |
| Height | 5′5″ (1.65 m) |
| Current Role | Chief Presenter, BBC News; Host of The World Today |
Early Life and Education
Maryam Moshiri was born in Tehran, Iran, before her family moved to the United Kingdom when she was still a child. Growing up in Britain gave her access to opportunities that shaped her personality and career choices. This cross-cultural upbringing also provided her with an understanding of different perspectives, which has helped her excel in the field of journalism.
Her academic journey began at the prestigious University College London (UCL), where she pursued a degree in Italian. Graduating in 2000, she showcased her natural passion for languages and communication. Afterward, she enhanced her skills in media and reporting by completing a Postgraduate Diploma in Broadcast Journalism at the London College of Communication in 2001. This education equipped her with the technical and professional expertise that would later define her successful career.
Start of Career
Maryam began her professional career in 2001 as a business reporter at Independent Radio News (IRN). This role provided her with valuable experience in reporting financial and economic developments. Her ability to simplify complex business topics for audiences soon set her apart from her peers.
In 2003, she joined the BBC, marking the beginning of a remarkable career in one of the world’s most respected media organizations. At first, she concentrated on business reporting, but her natural charisma and presenting skills quickly earned her more significant roles.
Career Growth at the BBC
For more than 16 years, Maryam Moshiri focused heavily on business news. She fronted programmes such as The Business Briefing, Talking Business, and Work Life. These platforms enabled her to connect with global business leaders, investors, and policymakers, giving viewers valuable insights into the world economy.
During this time, she also worked across different BBC outlets, including Radio 4 and BBC Breakfast, and even presented the evening news bulletin on BBC One. Her versatility made her one of the BBC’s most reliable faces, capable of handling both business updates and breaking international news.
Her excellence was recognized in 2017 when she was nominated for a Royal Television Society Award for Best News Presenter. This acknowledgment highlighted her reputation not only inside the BBC but also across the broadcasting industry.
Transition to Global News
Maryam’s career took a decisive turn when she expanded into global news broadcasting. She began hosting high-profile shows such as Outside Source, Impact, Global, and The Papers, where she reported on international developments ranging from politics to cultural stories.
In 2023, following the merger of BBC’s UK and World News services, Maryam was appointed as one of the Chief Presenters. This role positioned her at the forefront of the BBC’s new global strategy. Later that year, she became the host of The Daily Global, and by February 2024, the show was relaunched as The World Today with Maryam Moshiri.
This flagship programme now stands as a symbol of her career achievements, offering audiences in the UK and worldwide a trusted view of international events.
Style, Traits, and Recognition
Maryam is admired for her calm delivery, authoritative voice, and approachable nature. While she maintains the seriousness expected of a global news anchor, she is also known for occasional light-hearted moments that resonate with viewers. Whether it was her humorous “seagull impression” on air or quick-witted comments during technical mishaps, these moments have shown her human side and made her more relatable to audiences.
Her multilingual abilities also distinguish her from many peers. Speaking Italian, Farsi, and French in addition to English, she is able to connect with diverse guests and audiences, reflecting the international nature of her work.
Personal Life
Maryam Moshiri is married to Jonathan Farmer, the editor-in-chief of LatinNews, and together they have three children. Despite her busy career, she balances her professional responsibilities with family life in South London. She often expresses the importance of family and cultural values, which shape both her personal and professional outlook.
Latest News
In recent years, Maryam has frequently made headlines for both serious and lighter reasons. She anchored the BBC’s coverage of the death of Pope Francis and the papal conclave in 2025, demonstrating her ability to cover globally significant events with gravitas.
On the other hand, some lighter on-air moments, such as her playful gestures or comments, went viral on social media. While some moments were criticized, they also showed her ability to connect with audiences as a real, authentic personality, not just a formal newsreader.
Legacy
Maryam Moshiri has established herself as one of the BBC’s most influential presenters. She represents diversity in British media and serves as a role model for aspiring journalists from minority and multicultural backgrounds. Her rise from a business reporter to the anchor of The World Today reflects her resilience, talent, and determination.
Her legacy lies in her ability to deliver news with authority while remaining approachable and human. As an Iranian-British presenter, she highlights the importance of cultural diversity in media and the strength of representation in global journalism.
Conclusion
Maryam Moshiri’s career is a powerful example of how professionalism, adaptability, and cultural identity can create lasting impact in the media industry. From her early days as a business reporter to becoming one of the BBC’s chief presenters, she has overcome challenges, embraced opportunities, and carved out a unique space for herself in broadcasting.
Her journey demonstrates both the positive side of a respected career in journalism and the occasional difficulties of being in the public eye. Above all, Maryam remains an inspiring figure who continues to shape international news coverage and influence the future of global media.
FAQs
Q1: Who is Maryam Moshiri?
Maryam Moshiri is a British news presenter of Iranian heritage and one of the chief presenters at BBC News.
Q2: What show does Maryam Moshiri currently host?
She hosts The World Today with Maryam Moshiri, a flagship programme on BBC News.
Q3: Where was Maryam Moshiri born?
She was born in Tehran, Iran, and moved to the UK as a child.
Q4: What is her educational background?
She studied Italian at UCL and completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Broadcast Journalism at the London College of Communication.
Q5: Is Maryam Moshiri married?
Yes, she is married to Jonathan Farmer, and they have three children.
