If you have tuned into GB News recently, particularly on a weekend morning, you have likely been greeted by a warm, confident, and refreshingly authentic presence. That is Ellie Costello. In an era where broadcast journalism often feels scripted and detached, Ellie Costello brings a genuine curiosity and a relatable, down-to-earth energy that is hard to ignore. She is not just reading the news; she is connecting with it, and more importantly, with the people watching at home.
Ellie Costello has quickly become a staple in British media, navigating the jump from the prestigious corridors of the BBC to the startup energy of GB News with remarkable grace. But who is she really? Beyond the teleprompter and the 4 AM alarms, there is a story of hard work, resilience, and a deep-seated passion for storytelling. This article dives deep into the life and career of Ellie Costello, exploring her early days in Essex, her terrifying experience with a stalker, her high-profile wedding, and why she represents the new face of British journalism.
From Essex Classrooms to City University: The Making of a Journalist
Before she was grilling politicians on live television, Ellie Costello was a confessed “nosy” kid growing up in Essex. Born on November 23, 1993, Ellie was raised in a household that valued education above all else. As the daughter of two teachers, the dinner table conversations were likely filled with debate, analysis, and a healthy respect for facts. This academic background gave her a solid foundation, but it was her innate personality that truly charted her course.
Ellie Costello has often spoken about being a naturally gregarious person. While other kids might have shied away from attention, she was the one putting her hand up constantly, asking “why?” and “how?” Her leadership skills became evident early on when she served as Head Girl at Brentwood Ursuline Convent High School. It was here that she honed her public speaking and realized that she didn’t just like talking—she liked asking questions. That drive to delve deeper is the heart of investigative journalism.
To turn this natural curiosity into a career, Ellie Costello knew she needed the technical skills to match her instinct. She headed to the University of Southampton to study English Literature, a subject that sharpened her ability to deconstruct narratives and understand the human condition through text. But the screen was calling. She followed this up with a Master’s degree in Broadcast Journalism from the prestigious City University in London. This combination—the humanities grounding paired with hard news training—turned the enthusiastic girl from Essex into a razor-sharp broadcast journalist ready for the big leagues.
Breaking into the BBC and Finding Her Voice
For many journalism graduates, the BBC is the holy grail. For Ellie Costello, it was the first major step. Landing a role at the BBC World Service straight out of university is no small feat, but Ellie Costello handled the pressure of global news with the composure of a veteran. At the World Service, she had to adapt to a fast-paced environment where stories changed by the minute, and the audience spanned continents.
It was here that she learned the discipline of impartiality and the importance of the “human” angle in every story. However, it was her move to the BBC’s Victoria Derbyshire programme that truly allowed Ellie Costello to shine as an investigative force. This role took her out of the studio and into the gritty reality of British life. She wasn’t just reporting on statistics; she was speaking to real people facing real crises.
Ellie Costello produced some of the most viewed content in the programme’s history during this period. She tackled incredibly sensitive and dangerous subjects, including investigations into influencers being solicited for sex online and uncovering a culture of bullying within the British beauty industry. This work required immense bravery and empathy. It wasn’t just about getting the story; it was about protecting the vulnerable. This dedication to difficult storytelling earned her recognition within the corporation, including a nod as a BBC “Rising Star”.
Joining the Revolution: Ellie Costello at GB News
In 2021, a new player entered the British media landscape: GB News. It was a controversial, ambitious, and fast-moving startup determined to shake up the status quo. For a journalist like Ellie Costello, who thrives on “no two days being the same,” the opportunity was irresistible. She joined the channel as a South-East reporter in May 2021, just before the official launch. It was a risk, moving from the established safety of the BBC to a channel that was still finding its feet, but it was a gamble that paid off spectacularly.
Initially, viewers saw Ellie Costello out in the field, often standing in the rain, reporting on local issues affecting the South-East. But her talent was too big for the field alone. She quickly transitioned to the anchor desk. Today, Ellie Costello is a regular fixture on weekend breakfast, often alongside her close friend and colleague Stephen Dixon. She also regularly steps in as a relief anchor during the week, sharing the desk with broadcasting heavyweights like Eamonn Holmes.
What sets Ellie Costello apart on GB News is her tone. She balances the need for hard-hitting political scrutiny with a lightness of touch that makes breakfast television enjoyable. She challenges politicians without being aggressive and laughs with her co-hosts without undermining the seriousness of the news. This authenticity has made her one of the most beloved presenters on the channel.
Major Career Highlights and Investigative Grit
Ellie Costello’s career is punctuated by moments of history. She has had a “front row seat” to some of the most significant events of the 21st century. When Queen Elizabeth II passed away, Ellie was stationed outside Windsor Castle. She didn’t just report the facts; she captured the visceral outpouring of grief from the community, describing the sea of bouquets and the silent tears of neighbors who had lived alongside the monarch for decades.
Similarly, her coverage of the murder of MP Sir David Amess was deeply personal. The tragedy struck close to home, occurring not far from where she grew up. In these moments, Ellie Costello’s reporting transcends mere information delivery; it becomes a shared experience of national mourning. She has also covered the trials of massive public figures, including the “Wagatha Christie” case and the legal proceedings involving celebrities like Kevin Spacey, showcasing her ability to handle complex legal jargon and turn it into digestible television.
But perhaps her most harrowing experience didn’t happen on air. Ellie Costello has bravely spoken about being stalked for 16 months. A man who became obsessed with her from the screen subjected her to a terrifying campaign of harassment. This wasn’t just an intrusive annoyance; it was a living nightmare that affected her ability to work and live freely. In a brave move, Ellie Costello gave evidence against him behind a curtain in court. He pleaded guilty and received a suspended sentence, along with a restraining order. Her willingness to speak about this trauma has highlighted the dark side of public visibility and has offered solace to other journalists facing similar threats.
The Wedding of the Year: Ellie Costello Marries Gerard Durkan
After weathering professional storms and personal trials, 2025 brought a massive dose of joy for Ellie Costello. In April, she tied the knot with her long-term partner, Gerard Durkan. The couple chose the romantic setting of Chelsea Old Town Hall for their intimate yet chic London ceremony.
The details of the wedding were classic Ellie: elegant but not overly fussy. She wore a stunning, long-sleeved white mini dress that broke from traditional royal wedding-esque formality, signaling her modern and fun personality. For a journalist who spends her life reporting on the world’s problems, the wedding was a moment for her to share some “good news” with her followers. Having announced her engagement back in November 2023 with a heartfelt social media post, seeing Ellie Costello walk down the aisle marked a beautiful new chapter, balancing her high-octane career with a stable, happy personal life in London.
Public Speaking and Industry Recognition
Ellie Costello’s influence extends beyond the television studio. She is a highly sought-after speaker and event host. Because she operates with such confidence and clarity on live TV—where anything can go wrong—she is a natural fit for corporate events, awards ceremonies, and high-stakes summits. She has hosted the City of London Wealth Management Summit and the Lighthouse Construction Awards, bringing her professional inquisitiveness and genuine warmth to the stage.
Her ability to connect with a live audience is a testament to her preparation and her natural charisma. When Ellie Costello speaks, people listen because they trust her. She doesn’t rely on autocutters and scripts; she relies on her deep understanding of current affairs and her ability to think on her feet. This has made her a favorite among event organizers who need a host who can handle the unpredictable nature of live discussions.
Her impact on GB News has also contributed to the channel’s success at the TRIC Awards, where the breakfast show took home top honors. While she is humble about her role in that success, insiders know that her chemistry with co-hosts like Stephen Dixon and Eamonn Holmes is a major reason viewers tune in.
What Makes Ellie Costello Different?
In a media landscape often accused of being out of touch, Ellie Costello stands out because she is profoundly normal. She admits she is an early bird, making the dreaded 4 AM alarm for breakfast TV manageable. She talks openly about her family, being the daughter of two teachers from an Irish descent background, and her love for her home county of Essex. She doesn’t pretend to be something she isn’t; she is a journalist who happens to be on TV, not a celebrity who happens to read the news.
Her resilience is also defining. She faced a stalker and used the courts to fight back, becoming an advocate for victim safety rather than a victim herself. She has navigated a high-profile career change during a turbulent time for the media. Through it all, Ellie Costello has remained dedicated to the craft of journalism: asking questions.
She is passionate about giving a voice to those who are rarely heard. Whether she is interviewing the President of Apple Health or a mother struggling with the cost-of-living crisis, her approach is the same: listen, learn, and ask the next question. That curiosity is the engine of her success.
Conclusion
Ellie Costello is more than just a news anchor; she is a symbol of the changing face of British broadcasting. From her inquisitive days as a Head Girl in Essex to anchoring a TRIC award-winning breakfast show on GB News, her journey is a masterclass in hard work, bravery, and authenticity.
She has reported from the scene of national tragedies, celebrated love at Chelsea Old Town Hall, and faced personal fear in a courtroom—all while maintaining a smile that makes viewers feel like they are having a coffee with a friend. As she continues to grow in her role, sharing the desk with legends like Eamonn Holmes and Stephen Dixon, one thing is clear: Ellie Costello is not just rising; she has arrived. For anyone looking to understand modern British media, keeping an eye on Ellie Costello is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Ellie Costello famous for?
Ellie Costello is a prominent British journalist and television presenter, currently best known for her role as a news anchor on GB News. She co-hosts the Weekend Breakfast show and regularly fills in as a presenter on the GB News Breakfast show with Eamonn Holmes and Stephen Dixon. Viewers appreciate Ellie Costello for her warm, authentic interviewing style and her sharp investigative reporting.
How old is Ellie Costello, and where is she from?
Ellie Costello was born on November 23, 1993, which makes her 31 years old (as of 2025). She is proudly from Essex, England. Growing up in Essex, she was the daughter of two teachers, which instilled a strong work ethic and a love for learning in her from a young age.
Who is Ellie Costello married to?
Ellie Costello is married to Gerard Durkan. The couple got married in a beautiful ceremony at Chelsea Old Town Hall in London on April 12, 2025. Ellie Costello announced her engagement to Gerard in late 2023, sharing her joy on social media amidst the often gloomy news cycle.
What happened to Ellie Costello regarding her stalker?
Ellie Costello was the victim of stalking for 16 months by a man who believed he had a personal relationship with her because he saw her on television. The experience was terrifying for her, but she bravely gave evidence against him in court. The man pleaded guilty to stalking and harassment and received a suspended prison sentence along with a five-year restraining order.
Where did Ellie Costello work before joining GB News?
Before her successful tenure at GB News, Ellie Costello worked extensively at the BBC. She began at the BBC World Service and later became an investigative reporter for the Victoria Derbyshire programme. Her work at Victoria Derbyshire, particularly investigations into online solicitation and bullying, was some of the most viewed in the show’s history and earned her a ‘Rising Star’ nomination.
Does Ellie Costello do public speaking events?
Yes, Ellie Costello is a highly skilled and experienced public speaker. Leveraging her experience as a live television anchor, she hosts corporate events, awards evenings, and summits. She has spoken at events like the City of London Wealth Management Summit, where her professionalism, clarity, and charisma make her a favorite host.
