Clive Myrie has opened up about the lasting emotional toll of reporting from some of the world’s most perilous locations, acknowledging that certain moments from his extensive career have stayed with him.
The seasoned BBC journalist has covered various conflicts, natural disasters, and significant global events for many years. Despite learning to compartmentalize his work from his personal life, Myrie disclosed that specific images and narratives continue to resonate with him.
In an interview with The i Paper, Myrie shared, “I’ve become better at compartmentalizing as I’ve aged. Some experiences stay with you. Certain images I witnessed while reporting from Ukraine or unsettling stories I covered still linger. However, I have learned to disconnect and switch off.”
Myrie emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance as he progresses in his career. Instead of fixating on politics and current events during his time off, he now prioritizes socializing with friends and engaging in cultural activities.
Expressing his desire for a well-rounded life, he stated, “I want to focus on positive and enriching aspects. I don’t want my final thoughts to be about political figures like Donald Trump or Keir Starmer. I aim to immerse myself in art, music, and uplifting experiences. Attending galleries, concerts, and socializing with friends are integral parts of my routine, essential for my well-being.”
Joining the BBC as a trainee local radio reporter, Clive, 61, started his career at BBC Radio Bristol before transitioning to reporting for local television’s Points West and later contributing to BBC television and radio news.
As a BBC foreign correspondent, he has reported from over 90 countries, covering conflicts in Kosovo, Afghanistan, and Iraq. Myrie recounted a harrowing assignment in Iraq that was so perilous he felt compelled to write a farewell letter to his family in case of his demise.
Despite being a prominent face in the BBC’s current affairs coverage, Myrie disclosed that he deliberately limits his exposure to news outside of work. He shared, “I catch the Today program headlines at 6 am. Unless something captivates me, I switch to Radio 3 and avoid news for the rest of the day. I prefer not knowing what’s happening in the world in that moment, as I can catch up later.”
Remaining passionate about his role after decades in the industry, Myrie has no immediate plans for retirement as long as he finds joy in his work. He expressed, “As long as there is demand for my services at the BBC or any other broadcaster, and as long as I am capable, I will continue. Retirement is not in sight. I still find fulfillment, even amidst challenges. The thrill of being in hazardous situations still excites me, albeit not as intensely as before.”