9 little known facts about Dermot Murnaghan
Killer Britain with Dermot MurnaghanDermot Murnaghan has been a fixture on British telly for years. You’ve probably seen him holding court on Sky News, delivering headlines with trademark composure, or keeping quiz contestants in check on Eggheads. And fans of Killer Britain won't have to wait long to see Dermot again, as the series will be returning to Crime+Investigation with a brand new series on Monday, 12th May.
He’s one of those broadcasters who never made a fuss, just cracked on with it. But beyond the suit and serious face? There’s a fair bit more to him. Here’s a closer look at the man behind the desk.
1. He’s worked on nearly every major UK news channel
Dermot started at Channel 4 in the 1980s as a researcher for a business programme. From there, he moved to ITV, fronting The Big Story from 1993 to 1997, followed by a series of different news programmes. In 2002, he made the leap to BBC to anchor Ten O'Clock News. That led to his next role – Sky News in 2007. He kept the nation updated on everything from US election results to Queen Elizabeth II's funeral.
After 16 years at Sky, he stepped away in 2023. No fanfare. Just signed off with: 'You stay classy, Planet Earth', a tongue-in-cheek reference to the Will Ferrell comedy, Anchorman.
2. He’s a Devonshire local
Born in Barnstaple in 1957, Dermot Murnaghan lived in North Devon during his early years but later moved to Northern Ireland with his family. He went on to study history at the University of Sussex – a solid choice for someone who’d spend decades reading the news. Next? He took a postgraduate course in journalism at City University in London, where he picked up the tools of the trade.
No Eton or Westminster background. No Oxford or Cambridge tassels. Just graft, talent and a sharp mind.
3. He was once involved in a hit-and-run
Back in 2017, Dermot Murnaghan took a brief leave of absence from his Sky News show. The reason? Not a flu but a hit-and-run. He was knocked off his bicycle while cycling in Kentish Town in Northwest London, an incident that left him grazed and bruised but thankfully, okay.
4. You probably know him from Eggheads
Dermot hosted Eggheads on BBC Two from 2003 to 2014. He delivered each question with a poker face and a subtle smirk. His catchphrase? 'You're playing for something money can't buy - the Eggheads' reputation.' Bit of a mouthful, but it worked.
And yes, he’s brainy in real life too. Dermot wouldn’t look out of place as an Egghead himself!
5. He’s interviewed pretty much everyone
Politicians. Royals. Celebs. Dermot’s done the lot.
He’s not one for small talk. He likes to keep things tight and get to the point. It’s what made his interviews memorable. And of course, he never let anyone off the hook. He pressed Ed Miliband on his rivalry with brother David, pushed former shadow home secretary Diane Abbott on questions about a counter-terrorism review and broke the news of Queen Elizabeth II’s death live on air with absolute respect.
6. He’s hosted a British true crime series
You’d think after years of live news, he’d want a rest. Nope.
In 2020, documentary series Killer Britain with Dermot Murnaghan fascinated viewers with stories of rage, jealousy, obsession, deception and more. Dermot has unpacked some of the country’s biggest murder investigations. The show has run for four series, with a fifth starting in May 2025.
7. He once appeared on University Challenge
Dermot Murnaghan joined a handful of University of Sussex representatives for the Christmas 2016 instalment of the beloved British quiz show, University Challenge.
8. He didn’t slow down after Sky News
Dermot hasn’t slowed down since he stepped down from Sky News in 2023. He pops up now and then on the radio, in interviews and at media events. No matter what the occasion, you can bet that whenever Dermot takes the mic, the whole room listens intently.
9. He’s an Arsenal fan
Would Dermot Murnaghan be a true Brit without supporting a football team? He’s a passionate supporter of the Arsenal Football Club, aka a proud Gunners Gooner!
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