When breaking news hits during a live broadcast, the key is to stay calm and focused. Communicate with your producer or newsroom for updates, and only share verified information. Transition smoothly by saying something like, “We’re getting breaking news right now…” and explain what’s happening in clear, simple terms. Use any available live feeds, reports, or expert input to give context, and keep the tone conversational so the audience stays engaged. Be ready to adjust as new details come in, and always wrap up by summarizing what’s confirmed and promising more updates soon.

Just keep bullet points in mind in your news and talk about them in detail one by one. This is the best strategy I used when breaking news. Start with the first part of the news and than gradually give details till the end. The tickers we used also helped us a lot in phasing out the details of the story. Whereas on a telephonic beeper, these tickers help me a lot to remember various names and dates etc. These two tricks have worked for me over the past 10 years in mainstream media.

I've faced this a few times, and I genuinely learned from every situation. You almost feel ambushed, but when you're done with it, you're better off. I recommend randomly reading things you see for the first time aloud to yourself. I did this a few times, and I never knew it prepared me for breaking news situations. Try this, and thank me later.

Take a pregnant pause and announce that there is breaking news and announce who or what it involves(the headline). State your credible source for the information. Repeat. If there’s a correspondent who has more information go straight to them for larger context. If no correspondent, express how the information is just coming in carefully describe what has occurred.

Planning ahead for the unexpected sounds like a contradiction in terms, but when it happens (as it often does) it is actually possible to apply some predetermined forethought both practically with your team and also for yourself in your mind. This can enable you to give direction both to your team supporting you from the production suite, as well as to yourself when taking the lead with questions for spokespersons or commentators who may suddenly be part of live programme content with little or no warning. “What if…?” is a new game to play every day in the media

Points to remember: ‘Pause’ for a moment to take stock of the situation and maintain your poise. The transition has to be smooth. Audience will anticipate the changed atmosphere. Your body language and pitch should be in accordance with the news. It would alert the team to keep you updated on the go. Stay relevant, objective and avoid glazing to have an upper edge over your competitors. If there are antecedents to the news, can mention the brewing situation, avoid any personal opinion or biases. Be natural by using a simple and comprehensible language. Grade the news - focusing on the most pertinent ones on the go. Revert by saying, “What we have gathered so far...” Keep the audience updated.

As per my news media experience, I can say that when breaking news interrupts a live broadcast, the first step is to remain calm and professional. Acknowledge the breaking news to the audience and transition smoothly from the original script. Prioritize verified information, as accuracy is crucial during unfolding events. Rely on your production team for real-time updates, using your earpiece or notes delivered off-camera. Adjust your tone and pacing to match the urgency of the story, ensuring clear and concise communication. If specifics are unclear, focus on framing the situation without speculating, promising updates as more details emerge. Your ability to adapt and maintain control ensures trust and credibility with the audience.

I usually have the cameraman do a fast 360 and when he settles back on me, I speak with a different accent. Usually German, but I'll mix it up.