Gary Robertson: The Voice of Trust in Scottish Broadcasting and BBC Scotland Journalism

Gary Robertson is one of the most recognisable and respected voices in Scottish broadcasting. With a career spanning more than four decades, he has become synonymous with authoritative, calm and intelligent journalism on BBC Scotland radio and television. Known widely for his long-running role on Good Morning Scotland and his work on major political programmes, Gary Robertson has built a reputation based on credibility, consistency and deep understanding of Scottish, UK and international affairs.

Early Life and Education

Gary Robertson’s Roots in Elgin, Moray

Gary Robertson was born on 28 July 1967 in Elgin, Moray, Scotland. Growing up in the north of Scotland played an important role in shaping his grounded outlook and strong connection to Scottish communities. He was educated locally at Elgin High School, where his interest in broadcasting began at an unusually young age.

Early Passion for Broadcasting

While still at school, Gary Robertson took his first steps into media by volunteering at Moray Firth Radio. This early exposure to journalism and live broadcasting laid the foundation for a career that would later place him at the heart of national political discussion. Few broadcasters can claim such an early and organic entry into the profession.

Gary Robertson’s Entry into Professional Broadcasting

Moray Firth Radio: The First Chapter

After leaving school, Gary continued working at Moray Firth Radio from 1985 to 1990, gaining practical experience as a journalist and presenter. This period allowed him to master the fundamentals of radio journalism, including news gathering, interviewing and live presentation.

Joining BBC Scotland

In 1990, Gary Robertson joined BBC Scotland as a producer. He worked on major radio news programmes, including Good Morning Scotland and Newsdrive. His strong editorial judgement and calm presence soon distinguished him within the organisation.

BBC Radio Scotland and BBC Radio 5 Live

BBC Radio Scotland: Producer to Presenter

Gary Robertson’s time at BBC Radio Scotland marked a significant progression in his career. He worked as a producer on influential programmes and later became a presenter in his own right. His ability to explain complex political issues in plain language became one of his defining strengths.

BBC Radio 5 Live Experience

From 1994 to 2002, Gary Robertson worked for BBC Radio 5 Live in London. During this time, he presented across the network’s news programmes and handled major live broadcasts, including a six-hour Oscars special from Los Angeles. This national exposure enhanced his profile and strengthened his skills as a live broadcaster under pressure.

Gary Robertson and the BBC World Service

International Journalism

Alongside his work in the UK, He also contributed to the BBC World Service as a freelance producer and presenter. He worked on global news programmes, including The World, which was broadcast on public radio in the United States. This international experience broadened his perspective and reinforced his reputation as a serious journalist with global awareness.

Return to BBC Scotland and Career Growth

Mid-Morning Show Success

Gary returned to BBC Radio Scotland in 1999, where he went on to present his own mid-morning programme. The show received widespread recognition, winning the Mental Health Media Award in 2004 and earning a Sony Radio Award nomination. These accolades reflected both editorial excellence and public trust.

Leadership and Programme Development

During the mid-2000s, Gary played a key role in shaping new formats for BBC Radio Scotland. His interviewing style was praised for being thoughtful rather than aggressive, allowing guests space to explain their views while still being held to account.

Gary Robertson and Good Morning Scotland

Becoming the Face of Morning News

In August 2006, Gary Robertson became one of the main presenters of Good Morning Scotland, BBC Radio Scotland’s flagship breakfast programme. Broadcasting weekday mornings from 6am to 9am, he guided listeners through Scottish, UK and global news with clarity and authority.

Gary Robertson and Laura Maxwell on BBC Scotland

One of the most talked-about professional pairings in Scottish radio was Gary Robertson and Laura Maxwell on Good Morning Scotland. Their on-air partnership was built on professionalism, balance and mutual respect. While often searched together online, Gary and Laura Maxwell were colleagues only, working as co-presenters on the programme. Their chemistry helped make the show one of the most trusted sources of news in Scotland.

Surviving Budget Cuts

In 2014, Gary was briefly informed that his role on Good Morning Scotland would end due to budget cuts. The decision was later reversed, reflecting both internal recognition of his value and strong public support.

Gary Robertson on BBC Television

Politics Scotland and Newsnight Scotland

In addition to radio, He became a familiar face on BBC Scotland television. He presented Politics Scotland, a programme dedicated to in-depth political analysis, and was also a former presenter of Newsnight Scotland and Sunday Politics Scotland. His television work mirrored his radio style: measured, informed and trusted.

Reporting Scotland

He also presented editions of Reporting Scotland, further demonstrating his versatility across radio and television formats.

The Sunday Show and Recent Work

Following changes to BBC Scotland’s schedule, Gary became a presenter of The Sunday Show, a current affairs programme broadcast on both radio and television. His experience and credibility make him a natural fit for in-depth political interviews and long-form discussion.

Gary Robertson Age and Personal Background

Gary Robertson was born in July 1967, which makes him 58 years old as of 2025. His long career reflects decades of experience, yet he remains an active and influential voice in Scottish media.

Gary Robertson’s Life in Glasgow

Although born in Elgin, Gary Robertson now lives in Glasgow, where he is based for his BBC Scotland work. He frequently shares glimpses of travel, culture and daily life through social media, offering a more personal view alongside his professional role.

Gary Robertson Husband and Personal Life

Marriage and Relationship

Gary Robertson is openly gay and has spoken about his life with honesty and dignity. He is married to Donald Morrison, and the couple have been together for more than 25 years. They celebrated their 17th wedding anniversary, confirming a long-standing and deeply committed relationship built on mutual support and shared values.

Donald Morrison is a highly respected communications professional with extensive experience across public relations, media strategy and crisis communications in Scotland. His senior roles in the public and private sectors, including leadership positions within the care and aviation industries, reflect a career rooted in professionalism, responsibility and public service.

Private but Open

While Gary Robertson is open about his marriage, he maintains a clear boundary between his professional role and private life. Donald Morrison similarly keeps a low public profile outside his work, and together they balance public-facing careers with personal privacy. This measured approach has earned Gary Robertson respect not only as a journalist, but also as a thoughtful and grounded public figure.

Social Media Presence

He maintains an active presence on social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. His accounts reflect a mix of professional commentary, travel, personal milestones and cultural interests, further strengthening his connection with the public.

Legacy and Reputation

A Trusted Scottish Broadcaster

Gary’s career stands as a model of journalistic integrity. He is widely regarded as one of the most reliable broadcasters on BBC Scotland and BBC Radio Scotland, valued for his calm delivery and thoughtful questioning.

Why Gary Robertson Matters

In an era of fast news and strong opinions, Gary represents balance, experience and trust. His work continues to influence how news and politics are presented to Scottish audiences.

Quick Info

Conclusion

Gary Robertson is far more than a familiar radio voice. He is a veteran journalist, a respected BBC Scotland presenter, a trusted political interviewer and a broadcaster whose career reflects dedication to public service journalism. From his early days at Moray Firth Radio to his leading roles on Good Morning Scotland and The Sunday Show, Gary Robertson’s contribution to Scottish media remains significant and enduring.

FAQs

1. Who is Gary Robertson?

Gary Robertson is a Scottish radio and television presenter best known for his long career with BBC Scotland. He has presented major programmes including Good Morning Scotland, Politics Scotland, Newsnight Scotland, and The Sunday Show, and is regarded as one of Scotland’s most trusted broadcast journalists.

2. How old is Gary Robertson?

Gary Robertson was born on 28 July 1967 in Elgin, Moray. He is 58 years old as of 2025.

3. What programmes is Gary Robertson famous for?

He is most famous for presenting Good Morning Scotland on BBC Radio Scotland, where he was a main presenter for nearly two decades. He is also known for The Sunday Show, Politics Scotland, and previous roles on Newsnight Scotland and Sunday Politics Scotland.

4. Is Gary Robertson married? Who is his husband?

Yes, Gary Robertson is married. His husband is Donald Morrison, and the couple have been together for over 25 years, celebrating more than 17 years of marriage.

5. What is the professional relationship between Gary Robertson and Laura Maxwell?

Gary Robertson and Laura Maxwell are former BBC Scotland colleagues who co-presented Good Morning Scotland. They worked together professionally on the programme but are not related or married; their association was strictly as co-presenters.

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