Dan Walker’s Growing Media Influence: Channel 5 News Anchor and Classic FM Host Makes His Mark in 2025

The Evolution of a Broadcasting Career

Dan Walker, the British journalist and television presenter from Crawley, England, currently holds prominent positions as the presenter of 5 News on Channel 5 and the weekday breakfast show on Classic FM.

Current Roles and Recent Developments

As the lead anchor on Channel 5’s news show, Walker has expanded his portfolio to include hard-hitting peak time shows, including ‘Vanished: Britain’s Hunt For Missing People’ (2023) and ‘Dan & Helen’s Pennine Adventure’ (2023), which he co-hosts with Helen Skelton. In a significant career move, January 2024 saw Walker take on the role of regular presenter for Classic FM’s breakfast show, where he continues to maintain his presence in radio broadcasting alongside his television duties.

Impact on Broadcasting and Education

Walker’s influence extends beyond broadcasting into education, where he has established the Dan Walker Journalism Scholarships, worth £10,000 each, for home fee-paying students pursuing MA Journalism or MA Broadcast Journalism in 2025. This initiative provides students with the opportunity to be mentored by one of the country’s leading news and sports journalists, including personal support and career development advice from Walker himself.

Charitable Work and Personal Achievements

Walker demonstrates significant commitment to charitable causes, hosting his own charity golf tournament, The Walker Cup, which has raised over £250,000 for The Children’s Hospital Charity. His charitable endeavors include climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in 2019 for Comic Relief, alongside other celebrities including Shirley Ballas, Ed Balls, and Alexander Armstrong.

Broadcasting Philosophy

Walker’s approach to news presentation is particularly notable for its audience consideration, especially given that over 90% of the 5 News audience is over 35. He emphasizes the importance of inclusive language in news delivery, using ‘we’ rather than ‘you’ when discussing issues like the cost-of-living crisis, demonstrating a commitment to connecting with viewers through regular features such as ‘5 Phone,’ which encourages viewer participation.