Martha Kelner: The Rising Voice of British Journalism in America
Martha Kelner is one of the most recognised British journalists of her generation, known for her sharp reporting style, fearless questioning, and ability to break stories that resonate on both sides of the Atlantic. From her early days as a trainee reporter to her current role as the US Correspondent for Sky News, Kelner has carved out a distinguished career in both print and broadcast journalism. With her Yorkshire accent, tireless work ethic, and an impressive list of accomplishments, she continues to influence how international news is consumed and understood.
In this article, we take a closer look at Martha Kelner’s life, career, education, parents, partner, and professional journey, exploring how she became one of the most respected voices in modern journalism.
Early Life and Background
Martha Kelner’s Roots in Wakefield
Born in 1990, Martha Kelner grew up in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, a region known for its rich cultural traditions and strong community values. She is currently 35 years old. From an early age, journalism was part of her life, as her father was already a well-known broadcaster.
Parents and Family Connections
Martha Kelner is the daughter of Martin Kelner, a respected British radio journalist and sports broadcaster. Her uncle, Simon Kelner, is also a major figure in journalism, having served as editor of The Independent. With such influences in her immediate family, Kelner was naturally drawn towards the media industry, though she is quick to acknowledge that while her surname opened doors, her success is built firmly on her own merit and talent.
Education of Martha Kelner
Kelner attended St Thomas à Becket School before moving on to higher education. She later pursued journalism at The University of Sheffield, one of the UK’s leading institutions for media and communications. She graduated in 2011 with First Class Honours in Journalism, earning both NCTJ and BJTC accreditation. Her academic achievements set a strong foundation for her future in the competitive world of journalism.
Professional Journey
Early Career at the Daily Mail
Martha Kelner began her professional career in 2011 as a trainee reporter with the Daily Mail. She quickly proved her ability to chase major stories and was promoted to Athletics Correspondent, a role in which she gained recognition for her investigative approach. She spent over five years with the Mail, covering athletics and breaking exclusive stories that caught the attention of the wider sporting world.
Chief Sports Reporter at The Guardian
In 2017, Kelner made the move to The Guardian, where she became the Chief Sports Reporter. This was a significant achievement as she was the first woman to hold that position at the newspaper. During her time at The Guardian, she reported on some of the most high-profile sporting issues, including doping scandals and governance in global sport.
Joining Sky News
Kelner transitioned from print to broadcast journalism in 2018, joining Sky News as a Sports Correspondent. Her very first report was both tragic and significant: covering the Leicester City helicopter crash just days before she officially began her new role.
Her adaptability and ability to communicate stories visually made her a natural fit for television. Within a short period, she gained acclaim for her clarity, authority, and relatability on screen.
Washington DC Correspondent
By 2021, Kelner had shifted from sports into general news, being appointed US Correspondent in Washington DC. This position placed her at the heart of American politics and society during a turbulent period, reporting on everything from the aftermath of the Trump presidency to the challenges of the Biden administration.
Los Angeles Correspondent
In 2022, she relocated to Los Angeles, where she continues as the US Correspondent for Sky News. Based on the West Coast, she reports on breaking news, politics, social change, and cultural stories that shape the United States.
Awards and Recognition
Martha Kelner has been recognised with numerous awards for her reporting:
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Sports Journalist of the Year at the Press Awards (2017).
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Scoop of the Year at the Sports Journalists’ Association Awards (2017).
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Young Talent of the Year at the RTS Television Journalism Awards (2020).
Her ability to transition seamlessly between print and broadcast journalism has been particularly praised, showing her versatility and commitment to the craft.
Martha Kelner on Social Media
On Twitter (X), her handle is @marthakelner, where she identifies herself as “US Correspondent, Sky News. Formerly, Guardian, Daily Mail. DM’s open for stories.” She joined the platform in 2009, and as of now, she has over 28,900 followers. Her tweets cover breaking news, updates from her fieldwork, and insights into major US and international developments.
Personal Life
Is Martha Kelner Married?
There has been public curiosity about her personal life, particularly regarding whether Martha Kelner is married or has a husband. While she has not publicly confirmed being married, she has mentioned having a boyfriend, an acoustic engineer, in past interviews. At present, there is no reliable public confirmation of a husband.
Martha Kelner’s Accent
Kelner’s Yorkshire accent is one of her distinctive traits. It has been widely discussed on social media, particularly during her reporting in the United States. Some commentators noted her regional lilt during a high-profile exchange with a US politician. She embraces her accent as part of her identity and as a marker of her roots in northern England.
Challenges and Resilience
Being a Woman in Sports Journalism
When Martha Kelner began her career in sports journalism, it remained a field dominated by men. She has recalled occasions when she was the only female reporter at a major Premier League event. Despite this, she pushed forward with confidence, building respect among her peers and proving that journalism is defined by skill, not gender.
Coping with Social Media Criticism
Like many journalists in the public eye, Kelner has faced online criticism and trolling. She has spoken openly about how she uses tools like Twitter’s mute function and relies on the support of her family, friends, and partner to manage negativity. Her resilience in dealing with public scrutiny underscores her professionalism and focus.
Martha Kelner’s Journalism Style
Investigative Edge
Kelner is best known for her investigative approach, particularly in uncovering stories in sport and politics. She thrives on breaking news and getting beneath the headlines to reveal the deeper truths.
Broadcasting Authority
On television, she brings warmth and authority, delivering live reports with clarity and composure. Her ability to combine her print background with broadcast immediacy makes her reporting unique and engaging.
Conclusion
Martha Kelner represents a new generation of British journalists who are redefining international reporting. From her beginnings in Wakefield to her current role as a leading correspondent in Los Angeles, her journey reflects determination, skill, and a commitment to telling stories that matter.
At just 35 years old, Kelner has already built an enviable career across some of the UK’s most prestigious media outlets — the Daily Mail, The Guardian, and Sky News. She is a role model for aspiring journalists, particularly women aiming to succeed in fields historically dominated by men.
With her sharp instincts, dedication, and fearless reporting, Martha Kelner continues to shape how audiences in Britain, America, and beyond engage with news.
