Bob Friend

Bob Friend (1938–2008) was a pioneering British journalist and television presenter, best known as one of the original anchors of Sky News. Born in Tunbridge Wells, he attended The Skinners’ School, leaving at age 15 to begin his career as a cub reporter for the Tunbridge Wells Advertiser, where he covered Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation in 1953. After completing National Service with the Brigade of Gurkhas in Hong Kong, he spent a decade freelancing for British newspapers before joining BBC News in 1969. His assignments included reporting from Northern Ireland during the Troubles, a posting in Vietnam, and serving as the BBC’s first correspondent in Australia, followed by stints in Tokyo and New York. While in New York, he worked alongside Mark Thompson, who later became Director-General of the BBC.

Friend joined Sky News at its launch in 1989, quickly becoming one of its most recognisable faces. His on-screen partnership with Anna Botting became a viewer favourite, and his calm, authoritative style helped define the channel’s early identity. He conducted interviews with leading political figures and covered major global events, including UK general elections and international crises. His work earned him an MBE in 2003 for services to broadcasting. Friend also made cameo appearances in films such as Independence Day and Mission: Impossible, reflecting his cultural impact. He was married with two daughters and passed away in 2008 from a brain tumour. His legacy as a trusted broadcaster and trailblazer in 24-hour news remains widely respected.