Katie Shanahan’s unique path to fronting new-look snooker coverage on channel-5.

Katie Shanahan’s unique path to fronting new-look snooker coverage on channel-5.

 

 

Katie Shanahan’s rise to fronting Channel 5’s revamped snooker coverage isn’t your typical TV presenter story — it’s a journey built on grit, athleticism, and a hunger for storytelling that’s reshaping how we watch cue sports in the UK.

Before cameras ever called her name, Katie was chasing glory on hockey fields across England, the US, and Australia. She represented England internationally for five years, earned a bronze at the European Championships, and even snagged a hockey scholarship to the University of North Carolina — one of America’s powerhouse women’s programs . But after hanging up her stick, she didn’t fade into retirement. Instead, she swapped turf for a master’s in Sports Journalism, graduating with distinction, and dove headfirst into production roles before landing on-air gigs with Sky Sports, BBC Sport, and eventually ITV Sport.

Her breakthrough came covering major football events — UEFA Women’s Euro 2025, the FIFA Women’s World Cup, and even embedded reporting with the Lionesses — but it was her move to Channel 5 that signaled something bigger. Shanahan wasn’t just filling a seat; she was reimagining snooker broadcasting for a new audience. Channel 5’s “new‑look” snooker package promises tighter graphics, faster cuts, more player interviews, and a vibe that feels less like a lecture and more like a chat with friends watching together. Shanahan’s background as an athlete gives her an edge — she understands the pressure, the grind, the split‑second decisions that make or break.

Matthew Stevens and John Higgins? They’re not just guests — they’re anchors of credibility. Stevens, a former world finalist and one of the most charismatic commentators alive, brings the tactical insight and passion that makes snooker feel alive. Higgins — four‑time world champion, legendary for his razor‑sharp breaks and razor‑sharp wit — adds gravitas and excitement. Together with Shanahan, they form a trio that blends experience, expertise, and fresh energy: Higgins gives the “what‑happened‑here” analysis, Stevens delivers the “how‑he‑pulled‑that‑off” breakdown, and Shanahan ties it all together with clear, engaging storytelling that speaks to both die‑hard fans and newcomers.

This isn’t just about putting faces on screen — it’s about changing how the sport is consumed. Shanahan’s unique path — from international hockey star to sports journalism powerhouse — gives her a voice that cuts through jargon and connects with viewers on a human level. And with Stevens and Higgins alongside, Channel 5 isn’t just covering snooker — it’s elevating it.