Ex-BBC presenter John Humphrys on being drunk during live Nixon resignation report
John Humphrys, a former BBC presenter, recounted an incident where he was drunk while reporting on Richard Nixon's resignation in 1974. He admitted to having had a lavish lunch and returning to the office inebriated, which led to a memorable live broadcast. Humphrys, who has since retired, now hosts a podcast reflecting on his career and experiences.
- ▪John Humphrys presented the BBC's Today programme for 32 years before retiring in 2019.
- ▪He recalled being drunk on air while reporting Nixon's resignation after a lavish lunch.
- ▪Humphrys was the first journalist at the scene of the Aberfan disaster in 1966.
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Ex-BBC presenter John Humphrys on being drunk during live Nixon resignation reportJust nowShareSaveAdd as preferred on GoogleAmelia Shone-AdamsBBC WalesEPAJohn Humphrys presented Radio 4's Today programme for 32 years, as well as the TV programme MastermindFormer BBC presenter John Humphrys has recalled being drunk live on air in the early years of his career.Humphrys told The Times he "staggered" back to the office after a "lavish" lunch in August 1974 - and then told to break the news that US president Richard Nixon was resigning."I didn't fall off the chair, but it was painfully obvious," said Humphrys, adding: "That was the last time ever."Humphrys went on to present Radio 4's flagship Today programme for 32 years before retiring in 2019.
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