Why Is Robert Peston Not on TV Tonight — A Detailed Look at Robert Peston’s Career, Health, Twitter and Relationships
1. Introduction
When British audiences tune in expecting the sharp political insights of Robert Peston and find him missing, the immediate question arises: why is Robert Peston not on TV tonight?
It’s a question that trends regularly — especially given his position as one of the UK’s most recognisable political journalists. Alongside this, people also search for terms like Robert Peston illness, Robert Peston Twitter, Robert Peston wife, and even Robert Peston new wife.
This in-depth post explores all of these, offering trustworthy, easy-to-read insights that meet Google’s E-E-A-T principles — Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness and Trustworthiness — while helping readers understand both the man and the circumstances behind his absence.
2. Who Is Robert Peston?
Robert Peston is a respected British journalist, broadcaster and author. He currently serves as Political Editor for ITV News and hosts the political discussion programme Peston, which airs weekly and dissects current affairs, interviews politicians and analyses government decisions.
Background and early life
Born on 25 April 1960 in London, Robert Peston grew up in a Jewish family. His father, Maurice Peston (Baron Peston), was a Labour life peer and an economist. Robert attended Highgate Wood Comprehensive School and later studied Philosophy, Politics and Economics at Balliol College, Oxford. He also pursued postgraduate studies at the Université Libre de Bruxelles.
Career highlights
Began his career at the Financial Times, working as both Banking Editor and Financial Editor.
Joined the BBC in 2005 as Business Editor and later became Economics Editor.
Became well-known for breaking exclusive stories during the 2008 financial crisis, including major developments around Northern Rock.
Moved to ITV News in 2015 to become Political Editor and launched the weekly show Peston (originally Peston on Sunday).
Founded Speakers for Schools, a charity that connects influential speakers with state-educated students.
When he is missing from the screen, many assume something serious has happened — but in most cases, it’s simply part of his busy broadcasting schedule.
3. Why Is Robert Peston Not on TV Tonight?
Viewers often wonder: “why is Robert Peston not on TV tonight?” The reasons are rarely dramatic. Typically, they fall into three categories — programming schedules, network adjustments, or personal commitments.
TV scheduling and programme changes
The show Peston isn’t a daily broadcast. It typically airs once a week after News at Ten and occasionally takes breaks, particularly during parliamentary recesses or holidays. ITV sometimes adjusts its lineup to make room for breaking news, special events or other programming.
When this happens, viewers may tune in expecting Robert Peston but instead find alternative content in that slot. His absence doesn’t mean cancellation — it usually means the show is temporarily off the air or rescheduled.
Personal reasons and behind-the-scenes
Like any presenter, Robert Peston occasionally takes personal time off — whether for health, family or travel reasons. He might also be engaged in reporting duties elsewhere, especially during major political stories.
Unless ITV specifically announces it, a one-off absence doesn’t indicate illness or controversy. When fans ask “why is Robert Peston not on TV tonight,” it’s most often a matter of timing, not trouble.
4. Robert Peston Illness and Health Journey
Another frequent search query is Robert Peston illness. While he has shared some details about his mental and physical health, there is no evidence of a serious or ongoing condition that would prevent him from working.
Mental health: OCD and ADHD
Robert Peston has been open about living with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and recognising traits of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
He has described his OCD symptoms as beginning in childhood, involving rituals and intrusive thoughts. Later in life, he acknowledged that his ADHD contributes to his energetic, hyper-focused approach to work — a trait that has arguably helped him thrive in fast-paced journalism.
Rather than viewing these as weaknesses, Peston has framed them as part of what shapes his unique communication style and relentless curiosity.
Physical illness and openness
Beyond mental health, Robert Peston has shared that he contracted COVID-19 during the pandemic but recovered fully. As of 2025, there is no publicly confirmed major physical illness affecting his ability to present or appear on television.
His openness about mental health challenges has encouraged greater dialogue in the media industry, helping to destigmatise such conversations among high-profile professionals.
5. Robert Peston Twitter and Social Presence
The phrase Robert Peston Twitter refers to his highly active social-media presence. He uses the handle @Peston (on what is now X) and has a large following.
Twitter handle and activity
Robert Peston posts political commentary, updates on his show, and behind-the-scenes insights from Westminster. His feed is a mix of breaking-news analysis, humour, and occasional personal reflections.
He’s also known for using Twitter as a space to clarify political context before or after a major broadcast, often drawing attention to complex stories that deserve more depth.
How he interacts with the public
Peston’s tweets sometimes generate heated debate — especially when he offers strong opinions or quick takes on government performance. He engages directly with followers, occasionally responding to criticism or clarifying misconceptions.
For many, following Robert Peston Twitter is a way to stay informed about both UK politics and his own TV appearances. Often, he uses the platform to announce upcoming episodes, which helps answer the very question of “why is Robert Peston not on TV tonight” if a show is rescheduled.
6. Robert Peston Wife and Relationship History
The keywords Robert Peston wife and Robert Peston new wife appear frequently in search trends. Here’s what is publicly known about his relationships.
Marriage to Siân Busby
Robert Peston married writer and novelist Siân Busby in 1998. The couple had one son, Max. Siân Busby was a talented author whose works included historical fiction and memoir. Tragically, she passed away in 2012 after a battle with lung cancer.
Her death deeply affected Peston, and he has spoken candidly about grief, loss and the challenge of continuing his public work while mourning. He often credits her with grounding his life and inspiring him to focus on social causes.
New partner and “new wife” clarification
After Siân’s passing, Robert Peston began a relationship with journalist Charlotte Edwardes, known for her work in newspapers and magazines.
Although many searches use the phrase “Robert Peston new wife,” there is no public record of a marriage. They are long-term partners, and reports describe their relationship as strong and supportive.
So when people search “Robert Peston new wife,” they are likely referring to Charlotte Edwardes — but the correct description would be “partner” rather than “wife.”
7. What It Means for Viewers
Robert Peston’s role on television goes beyond reporting; he’s part of the national political conversation. That’s why when audiences notice he’s missing, searches like “why is Robert Peston not on TV tonight” surge.
For viewers, it matters because his presence signifies informed, accessible political coverage. Understanding that his absences are typically due to scheduling or routine matters reassures audiences and prevents misinformation from spreading.
Moreover, his honesty about Robert Peston illness (mental health), his active engagement through Robert Peston Twitter, and his human story involving Robert Peston wife and his later relationship all make him relatable.
These personal layers strengthen his reputation under the E-E-A-T framework — proving that credibility comes from both professional excellence and personal authenticity.
8. Conclusion
To recap: when people ask “why is Robert Peston not on TV tonight,” the most likely reasons are simple — the show is off-air, rescheduled, or he’s temporarily away for professional or personal reasons.
As for Robert Peston illness, he has been open about OCD and ADHD but is not suffering from any known major physical illness. His honesty and resilience are admired by both colleagues and the public.
Through Robert Peston Twitter, he stays connected with audiences, offering updates, insight and perspective. And while searches for Robert Peston wife and Robert Peston new wife often trend, the reality is that he was married to the late Siân Busby and now shares his life with partner Charlotte Edwardes.
Robert Peston continues to embody thoughtful journalism, blending intellect, empathy and transparency — traits that explain why viewers notice the moment he’s not on their screens.
9. FAQ
Q1: Why is Robert Peston not on TV tonight?
Usually because his show isn’t scheduled that evening or has been pre-empted by special programming. It rarely signals illness or controversy.
Q2: What illness does Robert Peston have?
He has spoken publicly about living with OCD and ADHD but has no major current physical illness affecting his work.
Q3: What is Robert Peston’s Twitter handle?
His official handle is @Peston. He uses it for political commentary, show updates and direct engagement with followers.
Q4: Who was Robert Peston’s wife?
He was married to author Siân Busby until her passing in 2012. They shared one son.
Q5: Does Robert Peston have a new wife?
He has a long-term partner, journalist Charlotte Edwardes, but there is no public record of a new marriage.
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