U105 favourite Carolyn Stewart announces shock departure after 21 years

Radio presenter Carolyn Stewart

One of Northern Ireland’s most recognisable radio voices has announced her departure from U105 after more than two decades on air, telling listeners she is “no longer a presenter” at the Belfast-based station.

Carolyn Stewart confirmed the news in a social media statement published on Sunday, 7 June, bringing an abrupt end to a broadcasting career at U105 that spanned the station’s entire existence.

In the post, Carolyn wrote:

“I regret to inform listeners that I am no longer a presenter at U105. As my departure is now subject to legal proceedings I cannot give you any more details but I want to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you for your loyal and enthusiastic support over the past 21 years. I will miss you.

“Carolyn x”

The announcement quickly sparked reaction online from listeners across Northern Ireland, many expressing shock at the news and paying tribute to a presenter who has been a familiar lunchtime companion for years.

One of Northern Ireland’s best-known radio voices

Carolyn Stewart has been a major figure in Northern Ireland broadcasting for more than three decades and is widely regarded as one of the province’s most recognisable radio personalities.

She first entered radio in 1990 as one of the original DJs at Cool FM when the station launched, helping shape commercial radio in Northern Ireland during the 1990s.

After around 15 years at Cool FM, she joined U105 when the station launched in 2005 and went on to become one of its longest-serving presenters.

Known for her relaxed broadcasting style, music knowledge and strong rapport with listeners, Carolyn built a loyal audience across Northern Ireland and became one of the defining voices of daytime radio on the station.

Career extended beyond radio

Away from radio, Carolyn also established a television profile during the 1990s, including co-presenting the youth programme SUS alongside Patrick Kielty on UTV.

She has also become well known outside broadcasting through her involvement in community and cultural events, particularly as a long-time host of the Belfast Mela, one of Northern Ireland’s largest multicultural festivals.

Carolyn has frequently spoken publicly about growing up as a mixed-race child in Belfast during the Troubles and has been regarded by many listeners as an important voice representing Northern Ireland’s increasingly diverse communities.

Despite holding a law degree from Queen’s University Belfast, she ultimately pursued a career in broadcasting instead.

From broadcaster to award-winning food entrepreneur

Outside media, Carolyn also built a successful food business inspired by her Jamaican heritage.

Her company, Totally Hot NI, produces sauces, marinades and pickled products and has earned multiple Great Taste Awards while becoming a familiar presence at food markets and events across Northern Ireland.

Many listeners know Carolyn not only as a radio presenter, but also as a club DJ, event host, entrepreneur and advocate for multiculturalism within Northern Ireland.

Departure marks end of an era for U105 listeners

While no further details have yet emerged surrounding her departure, Carolyn’s statement indicated that legal proceedings are ongoing.

Her exit marks the end of a significant chapter for U105 and Northern Ireland radio more broadly, with Carolyn having remained one of the station’s most recognisable and enduring on-air personalities since its launch more than 20 years ago.

For many listeners, her voice formed part of the daily soundtrack of life across Northern Ireland — from lunchtime radio at work to long drives, family kitchens and countless community events over two decades on air.