Stephen Dixon: The Accomplished British News Presenter at GB News
Stephen Dixon is a highly respected British news presenter with more than three decades of experience in broadcast journalism. Known for his professionalism, warmth on screen, and ability to handle breaking news with precision, Dixon has become one of the most recognisable faces in UK television news. Currently serving as a presenter at GB News, he co-hosts Breakfast with Stephen and Anne alongside Anne Diamond, where he continues to engage millions of viewers every week. His career, however, spans far beyond GB News, stretching back through a long and successful tenure at Sky News, as well as roles with ITN and various radio networks.
This article explores Stephen Dixon’s life, education, professional journey, and personal achievements, providing a full portrait of a man who has made a lasting mark on British journalism.
Early Life and Background
Stephen Dixon was born on 1 March 1974 in Newton-in-Furness, Cumbria, United Kingdom. Raised in the north of England, he has always spoken openly about his northern roots and the working-class values instilled in him from an early age. These values, combined with his natural curiosity and passion for storytelling, paved the way for his career in journalism.
Standing at 1.85 metres tall, Dixon’s calm presence and confident delivery have been instrumental in shaping his on-air persona. Even before his television career began, he demonstrated an interest in communication and news reporting, a path that would lead him to academic and professional success.
Education and Academic Honours
Stephen Dixon pursued his passion for journalism by enrolling at Nottingham Trent University, where he studied Broadcast Journalism. He graduated in 1995 with a BA (Hons), equipped with the skills needed to break into the competitive media industry.
His alma mater later recognised his distinguished career, awarding him a Doctor of Letters (DLitt) in 2016. In the same year, he also received a Doctor of Arts (DArts) in Broadcast Journalism from the University of Bedfordshire. These honorary doctorates symbolise the respect he has earned from both academia and the wider broadcasting community.
Career Beginnings in Radio
Like many of his contemporaries, Stephen Dixon began his career in local radio. From 1992 to 1996, he worked as a reporter at Trent FM, GEM AM, and RAM FM, covering news stories in Nottingham and Derby. This period honed his ability to work under pressure, write crisp news scripts, and build rapport with listeners.
The skills Dixon developed in local radio became the foundation for his later work in national television. His versatility and adaptability made him an asset in every newsroom he entered.
Moving into Television: ITN and Channel 5
In 1996, Stephen Dixon transitioned into television, joining ITN as a senior producer and programme editor. Over the next four years, he worked across various roles, including presenting. His tenure at ITN gave him the opportunity to contribute to some of Britain’s most respected news programming.
By 1998, he had stepped more firmly into presenting, anchoring bulletins and developing his on-screen skills. He also contributed to Channel 5 News and worked briefly with Channel 4’s Big Breakfast News, further cementing his profile as a capable and engaging journalist.
Sky News: Two Decades of Broadcasting Excellence
Stephen Dixon is perhaps best known for his remarkable 21-year career at Sky News, where he worked from 2000 until 2021. During this time, he became a household name and a trusted figure for millions of viewers.
Programmes Hosted at Sky
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Sky News Sunrise – Dixon co-presented the flagship breakfast show, guiding viewers through the morning headlines and breaking stories.
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Sky News @ Breakfast – Known for his calm authority, he steered viewers through complex news cycles.
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Sky News at Seven and Sky News at Ten – These evening bulletins showcased his ability to deliver hard news with clarity and gravitas.
Reputation at Sky
Dixon became recognised for his reliability during breaking news situations. Whether covering elections, royal events, or international crises, he brought accuracy and reassurance to the screen. Viewers valued his ability to balance serious news with moments of warmth and relatability.
Joining GB News
In November 2021, Stephen Dixon announced his departure from Sky News after over two decades of service. He soon joined GB News, Britain’s first dedicated opinion-led news channel, where he continues to thrive as one of its most prominent anchors.
Breakfast with Stephen and Anne
Currently, Dixon co-presents Breakfast with Stephen and Anne on GB News. Alongside Anne Diamond, he brings a mix of breaking news, analysis, and lighter features to morning television. The pairing has become popular with viewers who appreciate the chemistry between the two presenters.
Skills and Professional Strengths
Stephen Dixon’s long career has been underpinned by a range of professional skills:
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News Writing: An expert in crafting accurate and engaging scripts for broadcast.
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Editing: Skilled at shaping news segments for clarity and impact.
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Breaking News Delivery: Trusted for his calmness and authority in high-pressure, live situations.
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Broadcast Technology: Experienced in using Avid and other newsroom software.
These abilities, combined with his natural presence, have established him as a reliable figure in British journalism.
Personal Life and Advocacy
Stephen Dixon is openly gay and has spoken candidly about his personal life. On 19 May 2022, he married his husband in the Lake District. While Dixon is protective of his spouse’s privacy, he did share one wedding photograph publicly and later marked their second wedding anniversary on social media in 2024.
In addition to his broadcasting career, Dixon is an honorary patron of Breakthrough T1D UK, a leading charity supporting people with Type 1 diabetes. Diagnosed with the condition at the age of 17, he has used his public profile to raise awareness and encourage others living with diabetes to manage it with confidence.
He also enjoys writing and once published a collection of poetry entitled Love is the Beauty of the Soul.
Relationship with Gillian Joseph
Stephen Dixon worked closely with Gillian Joseph during his years at Sky News, particularly on Sunrise. Their professional relationship blossomed into a warm friendship, which is often reflected in affectionate mentions on social media. While some speculated about their closeness, Dixon’s openness about his sexuality clarifies that their bond is rooted in friendship and mutual respect.
Social Media Presence
Dixon maintains an active presence on social media, where he connects with viewers and advocates for causes close to his heart.
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Twitter/X:
@DrStephenDixon– Over 61,000 followers. -
Instagram:
@stephengbnews– Over 12,000 followers.
Through these platforms, he shares updates on his career, personal reflections, and support for diabetes awareness campaigns.
Legacy and Impact
Stephen Dixon’s career is a testament to resilience, professionalism, and authenticity. From his beginnings in local radio to his current role as a GB News anchor, he has consistently proven himself as a journalist who values truth, fairness, and clarity. His visibility as an openly gay news presenter also represents an important step forward for diversity in British media.
By combining rigorous journalism with a human touch, Dixon continues to inspire both viewers and aspiring journalists. His journey demonstrates that with passion, hard work, and integrity, it is possible to build a lasting and impactful career in broadcasting.
Conclusion
Stephen Dixon is more than just a familiar face on morning television; he is a dedicated professional whose career reflects the very best traditions of British journalism. With his deep roots in the industry, his openness about his personal journey, and his ongoing commitment to causes such as diabetes awareness, he remains a figure of inspiration both on and off the screen.
At 51 years of age, Stephen Dixon shows no sign of slowing down. As he continues to anchor the news and shape public discourse, his influence within UK media will only grow stronger.
