Fern Britton, the beloved daytime TV icon, opens up about surviving the 1980s television industry and her dramatic exit from This Morning. In a revealing new interview, she shares how she navigated sexism, personal loss, and career reinvention with trademark grit.
Fern Britton on the 1980s TV Landscape
Britton recalls the challenges of breaking into television during an era dominated by male executives. She faced inappropriate comments, including a shocking remark from Frank Bough, but refused to be silenced. “You had to be tough,” she says, “but I always knew my worth.”
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How She Built a Career on This Morning
From 1999 to 2009, Britton co-hosted This Morning alongside Phillip Schofield, becoming a household name. Her warm yet authoritative style resonated with millions. But behind the scenes, tensions simmered, leading to her sudden resignation in 2009.
| Decade | Key Career Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1980s | Regional news presenter and early BBC shows |
| 1990s | Host of Ready, Steady, Cook and other lifestyle programs |
| 2000s | Co-host of This Morning (1999–2009) |
| 2010s | Chat show host and author of 12 novels |
Life After This Morning: Reinvention and Resilience
After leaving the show, Britton launched her own chat show and later presented The Big Allotment Challenge. She also became a successful novelist. “I’m not scared of stepping into nothing,” she explains. Her ability to pivot showcases career resilience that inspires many.
Personal Struggles and Triumphs
At 63, her marriage to chef Phil Vickery ended. She entered an “era of indolence,” but soon bounced back. Today, at 69, she lives in Cornwall, writing her 12th novel and enjoying village life. “That was then, and this is now,” she reflects.
- Key takeaways from Fern Britton’s journey:
- Surviving sexism in 1980s TV required fierce determination
- Leaving a high-profile job can lead to unexpected opportunities
- Personal setbacks can be overcome with a positive mindset
- Reinvention is possible at any age
FAQ
Why did Fern Britton leave This Morning?
Britton resigned abruptly in 2009 amid rumors of a feud with co-host Phillip Schofield. She has said she made the decision quickly and without a backup plan.
What did Frank Bough say to Fern Britton?
In the 1980s, Bough told Britton, “I do have a very big cock,” a remark she has cited as an example of the sexism women faced in television.
How many books has Fern Britton written?
She has written 12 novels, with her latest released in 2024, often drawing on her life experiences.
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