Kelly Cates

Kelly Cates Biography

Kelly Cates is a renowned sports broadcaster known for her extensive work with leading networks such as Sky Sports, BBC Sport, and ESPN. She comes from a famous football family but has built her own identity in the sports broadcasting world over a career spanning more than two decades. Kelly gained prominence for hosting major football coverage, including Premier League matches and the prestigious football highlights show "Match of the Day."

Childhood

Kelly Cates was born in Glasgow on September 28, 1975. She is the eldest of four children born to the legendary Scottish footballer and manager Sir Kenny Dalglish and his wife Marina. Growing up in a football-centric family, Kelly was exposed early to the sport's culture. She spent her formative years in Southport and shares a close bond with her brother Paul Dalglish, who also pursued a professional football career, along with her two younger sisters, Lynsey and Lauren.

Education

Kelly initially embarked on a completely different academic path and was two years into studying mathematics at Glasgow University. However, an opportunity to join Sky Sports News in 1998 shifted her career direction from academics to sports broadcasting. This decision set the stage for her notable career in the media industry.

Career

Kelly's broadcasting career began in 1998 when she became one of the first presenters on Sky Sports News alongside Mike Wedderburn. Her career expanded with roles at Setanta Sports News and ESPN, where she covered the Premier League and hosted shows like "Talk of the Terrace." She also reported for ITV during the 2010 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Champions League. In 2012, Kelly was part of the presenting team for the London 2012 Paralympics on Channel 4 and later became a prominent face on Channel 5’s Football League coverage. Since 2016, she has been a frontline presenter for Sky Sports’ live Football League coverage before moving to Premier League broadcasts. In 2025, she made a significant career milestone by joining the BBC as a co-host of the iconic "Match of the Day" program, sharing duties alongside Gabby Logan and Mark Chapman, marking a new era for the show.

Family Life

Kelly married Tom Cates in Glasgow in 2007. The couple has two daughters together. Although they separated in 2021, Kelly has been open about balancing her demanding career with motherhood, serving as an inspiration for working mothers in sports media. Her family background and personal experiences have significantly influenced her professional journey and public personality.

Achievements

Kelly Cates has achieved considerable success and respect in the world of sports broadcasting. Not only did she help launch Sky Sports News, but she has also been pivotal in covering multiple high-profile football tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup, Premier League, and UEFA Champions League. Her appointment as co-host of "Match of the Day," one of the most-watched football shows in the UK, reflects her standing as one of the top sports broadcasters today. Additionally, she has presented on national radio, including BBC Radio 5 Live, covering major sporting events such as FIFA World Cups and Euros.

Controversies

Throughout her career, Kelly Cates has maintained a professional image largely free of controversies. Unlike some contemporaries who have faced public scrutiny, Kelly has been recognized for her balanced and steady approach, especially in a high-profile, often politically charged environment like sports broadcasting. There has been some discussion about the BBC's choice to not have a sole female presenter on "Match of the Day," but with Kelly joining Gabby Logan, sports commentators have marked it as a positive step forward for female representation in football broadcasting.

Kelly Cates Summary

Kelly Cates is a celebrated sports broadcasting figure with a rich legacy linked to her family's football history. From her early days in Glasgow and her academic beginnings to becoming a pivotal voice in UK sports media, Kelly has carved out a distinctive career. Her roles at Sky Sports, ITV, and ESPN have exemplified her versatility and passion for football broadcasting. Currently, as a co-host of "Match of the Day" on BBC, she is shaping the future of football media, all while balancing family life with two daughters. Kelly’s career reflects dedication, professionalism, and an inspiring journey from the daughter of a football legend to a respected broadcaster in her own right.