Kevin Maguire has opted to wear a poppy closer to Remembrance Sunday, explaining that he prefers this timing and opposes what he refers to as the “Poppy Police” who criticize when poppies are worn.
Why Kevin Maguire Chooses to Wear a Poppy Later:
Previously, there were questions and concerns about Kevin Maguire’s decision not to wear a poppy, a symbol of remembrance for fallen soldiers. While many people wear poppies leading up to Remembrance Day, Kevin has chosen to purchase and wear his poppy closer to the actual day, rather than in October.
He has expressed that TV shows often encourage guests to wear poppies without asking for donations, and he prefers to do it closer to Remembrance Sunday. Additionally, he has mentioned that some ex-armed forces members disapprove of what he calls the “armchair warrior Poppy Police.”
Over the years, Kevin has maintained this stance, stating that he wears his poppy with pride, but his decision can elicit strong reactions from certain nationalist groups. Ultimately, his choice is rooted in personal timing and a desire to pay his respects in his own way.
Who is Kevin Maguire?
Born on September 20, 1960, Kevin John Maguire is a well-known British political journalist. Currently, he holds the position of associate editor at the Daily Mirror newspaper, where he plays a significant role in shaping the newspaper’s editorial content. Earlier in his career, Maguire served as the chief reporter at The Guardian, one of the UK’s most respected and influential newspapers.
In his role as associate editor at the Daily Mirror, Maguire is actively involved in contributing to and overseeing the newspaper’s political coverage. His extensive experience and insights in political journalism make him a valuable asset in shaping the publication’s content.
Before his tenure at the Daily Mirror, Maguire worked as the chief reporter at The Guardian, where he likely covered a wide range of news and reported on significant events, further enhancing his journalistic experience and expertise.
Kevin Maguire’s Age:
As of 2023, Kevin Maguire is 63 years old. He hails from South Shields, where he grew up in a family of six siblings. His upbringing was in a working-class environment, with his brother working as a miner at Westoe Colliery and his mother holding jobs as a cleaner and a factory worker. These early-life experiences have had a lasting impact on his perspective and career.
Maguire’s educational journey began with his successful completion of the eleven plus exam, which granted him admission to South Shields Grammar-Technical School for Boys between 1972 and 1974. He later pursued higher education at the University of York, where he studied politics, and subsequently completed a journalism postgraduate diploma at Cardiff University.
In summary, Kevin Maguire’s roots in South Shields, his family’s background in industrial and manual labor, and his educational path, which included attending a grammar-technical school and studying politics and journalism at reputable institutions, have contributed to his diverse experiences and knowledge that he brings to his career as a respected political journalist and editor.
Kevin Maguire’s Career:
Kevin Maguire’s career in journalism has been remarkably diverse, with stints at various newspapers and contributions to broadcasting. He worked at the Western Morning News from 1984 to 1987, New Civil Engineer in 1987, The Daily Telegraph from 1990 to 1994, the Daily Mirror from 1994 to 1999, and The Guardian from 1999 to 2005.
Notably, during his time at The Guardian, he coined the term “awkward squad” in 2001, describing the emerging left-wing trade union leaders who opposed New Labour’s policies. In the realm of broadcasting, Maguire has been actively involved.
In 2009, he was drawn into the Damian McBride affair, where it was reported that he had attended a meeting related to the Labour Party’s online political attack strategy. He has been a frequent contributor to Sky News and the BBC and made appearances on shows like “Have I Got News for You.”
He also co-hosted a politics show on LBC 97.3 and has been a regular guest on various television programs, including “Jeremy Vine” and “Good Morning Britain” on ITV. Maguire’s diverse experience has made him a recognizable figure in the world of journalism and broadcasting.
Kevin Maguire’s Personal Life:
Kevin Maguire is married to Emma Burstall, a journalist and novelist. They reside in South West London and have a family with two sons and one daughter. This family life adds a personal dimension to his public career, reflecting his commitment to his role as a husband and father.
In recognition of his contributions and achievements, Maguire was honored with the title of Doctor of Arts through an honorary degree from the University of Sunderland on July 4, 2018. This acknowledgment underscores his significant impact on the field of journalism and his influence in the public sphere.
In terms of his personal beliefs, Maguire identifies as a republican, indicating his stance on matters related to the monarchy and the broader political system. Additionally, he is an ardent supporter of Sunderland A.F.C., a football club, which further reflects his personal interests and passions outside of his professional life.
Kevin Maguire’s personal life and beliefs provide valuable insight into the man behind the journalism and commentary, highlighting his family life, recognition within the academic sphere, political convictions, and his passion for sports.
Why Kevin Maguire Does Not Wear a Poppy: FAQs
1. Who is Kevin Maguire married to?
Kevin Maguire is married to journalist and novelist Emma Burstall.
2. Where does Kevin Maguire and his family reside?
They live in South West London.
3. How many children does Kevin Maguire have?
Kevin and Emma have two sons and one daughter.
4. What honor was bestowed upon Kevin Maguire in 2018?
He received an Honorary Doctor of Arts degree from the University of Sunderland on July 4, 2018.
5. What are Kevin Maguire’s political beliefs?
Kevin Maguire identifies as a republican, indicating his stance on matters related to the monarchy and the broader political system.
