Helen Skelton – a name synonymous with adventure, resilience and versatility – continues to captivate British audiences with her magnetic presence across television, radio and beyond. Known for her remarkable achievements both on and off screen, Helen has remained a firm favourite in the UK media landscape, whether presenting children’s television, braving record-breaking challenges or navigating personal trials in the public eye.

Early life and start in broadcasting

Born in Carlisle, Cumbria, in July 1983, Helen Skelton grew up in a farming family in Kirkby Thore. Her roots in rural England shaped her grounded personality, something that has endeared her to viewers over the years. After attending local schools, she studied journalism at Cumbria Institute of the Arts and began her professional journey with local radio stations before joining Newsround and Blue Peter on CBBC.

It was during her time on Blue Peter from 2008 to 2013 that Helen first became a household name. She didn’t just present the programme – she lived its spirit. From tightrope walking between Battersea Power Station chimneys to kayaking the Amazon, Helen’s sense of daring adventure won her acclaim and admiration from young audiences and their families alike.

Taking on physical challenges

Helen Skelton quickly became known for pushing physical and mental boundaries. She holds multiple world records for her endurance feats, which were often undertaken in aid of charity. In 2009, she became the second woman ever to complete the entire length of the Amazon by kayak – an astonishing 2,010-mile journey that took 39 days. This incredible feat was televised and remains one of the highlights of her presenting career.

Helen braved the cold in Antarctica for Sport Relief in 2012, becoming the first person to ride a bicycle—a specially designed ice bike, to be precise—to the South Pole. She skied, biked and trekked across 500 miles in temperatures as low as -48°C. These types of challenges helped her break out of the mould of children’s TV and showcase her sheer determination and grit, proving she wasn’t afraid to embrace risk.

Transition to mainstream television

Post-Blue Peter, Helen Skelton moved seamlessly into adult mainstream broadcasting. She became a presenter on Countryfile, a role that suited her upbringing and knowledge of rural life. Her ability to connect with viewers through honest storytelling and a warm approach quickly made her a popular addition to the team.

She also began co-hosting live sporting events, including the 2016 Summer Olympics on BBC, and the swimming events at the Commonwealth Games. Helen’s background in sport, coupled with her journalism training, allowed her to present with confidence and authority. Her work was particularly praised during the Rio Olympics, where she fronted much of the live swimming coverage, winning over critics and sports fans alike.

Dancing through heartbreak

In 2022, Helen Skelton hit headlines for more personal reasons. Her marriage to England rugby league star Richie Myler ended abruptly, just four months after the birth of their third child. Helen decided to handle the breakup amicably, without drama or public criticism because she had three small children to nurture.

Her decision to take part in Strictly Come Dancing that same year was seen by many as a turning point. Partnered with professional dancer Gorka Márquez, Helen embraced the challenge and wowed the judges and audience with her resilience and radiant performances. Her Argentine tango was lauded for its power and emotional impact, widely viewed as a response to the turmoil she had endured.

The show became a therapeutic space for Helen, where she rediscovered her confidence and reminded the public of her unshakable spirit. Trending hashtags like #HelenDeservedBetter and #HelenSkeltonGlowUp were prominent on X, with fans celebrating her grace under pressure.

Reinvention as a media personality

Following her Strictly success, Helen Skelton reinvented her public image. She became a relatable figure for many women going through personal upheaval, celebrated for keeping things together with class and dignity. From interviews with women’s magazines to discussions on mental strength and parenting, Helen’s voice gained new relevance.

She went on to co-present BBC Radio 5 Live’s weekend show, bringing her lively and grounded perspective to national radio. Though she later stepped back from the role in 2023 to focus on her children, the move demonstrated her growing reach as a media personality beyond television.

Helen also became a brand ambassador for a range of British companies, using her platform to champion family values, wellness and countryside living. Her lifestyle has become aspirational, yet achievable – she’s never seen as out of touch or overly curated.

Impact on female empowerment

Helen Skelton’s recent resurgence has been intrinsically tied to conversations about female empowerment, self-worth and resilience. She has been outspoken about the need to redefine success for women – not just through career accomplishments, but through survival, strength and self-acceptance.

On platforms like Instagram and Meta’s Threads, Helen regularly shares content that promotes positive parenting, active lifestyles and personal recovery after trauma. Her fans, largely female, find her presence reassuring, especially during periods of societal stress or personal uncertainty.

From being a role model on Blue Peter to becoming a symbol of personal reinvention, Helen has demonstrated how media figures can adapt to life’s changes while remaining authentic and empowering.

Latest projects and public appearances

In 2024 and into 2025, Helen Skelton has remained a constant in UK media, appearing on shows like Lorraine, Morning Live, and The One Show, often discussing everything from rural education to lifestyle trends. Her most recent appearance at the Chelsea Flower Show drew interest on X and YouTube, where her outfit and interview style gained praise for being both chic and unpretentious.

She is also writing a new book focusing on life lessons from her experiences – from the Amazon to heartbreak. With a warm, witty voice and plenty of real-life stories, the upcoming memoir is already trending in pre-orders across Amazon UK and Waterstones.

In the world of podcasts and wellness retreats, Helen has made special guest appearances discussing everything from grief to motherhood. Her approach – honest without being over-exposed – continues to attract admiration. She isn’t selling perfection; she’s championing progress.

Public reception and cultural relevance

Helen Skelton’s cultural relevance lies in her versatility. She’s at home in wellies on a Cumbrian farm or in sequins on a dance floor. This adaptability makes her relatable across generations. Whether speaking to children, rural communities or urban professionals, she bridges gaps in a uniquely British way.

Media commentators often refer to her as one of the last true “national presenters” – someone who can comfortably move between genres, audiences and platforms without losing credibility. Her authenticity has been key in this journey. She doesn’t chase trends; she sets them naturally through lived experience and quiet confidence.

Engagement on social media platforms

Helen’s activity across X, Instagram and Meta has consistently driven engagement. Trending topics in 2025 include her tips on solo parenting, behind-the-scenes glimpses at her rural home life, and collaborations with countryside preservation groups. With hashtags like #SkeltonStrong and #HelenOnTheGo often making the rounds, it’s evident her influence extends well beyond her TV appearances.

Unlike many celebrities, Helen doesn’t over-curate her presence. Her content remains grounded – shots of rainy school runs, farm dogs, or garden hacks – which keep followers engaged and loyal. Her followers aren’t just fans, they’re supporters who feel invested in her life journey.

Career challenges and how she overcame them

Helen Skelton’s path hasn’t been without difficulties. The transition from children’s TV to mainstream media is rarely seamless. She faced initial doubts about her credibility in hard news or sports broadcasting but overcame these with quiet determination and a willingness to learn.

Similarly, her very public divorce could have eclipsed her career. Instead, she turned adversity into strength, using it as a platform to highlight how single mothers and women facing emotional setbacks can not only survive but thrive.

She’s also had to work hard to maintain career longevity in a rapidly changing media landscape – diversifying into radio, live events, authorship and digital platforms with impressive agility.

What the future holds

As we look ahead, Helen Skelton shows no signs of slowing down. She’s hinted at developing her own rural lifestyle series – possibly a mix of travel, cooking and countryside adventures, similar in tone to Escape to the Country or Countryfile. Rumours of a Channel 5 deal are gaining traction on media sites and trending on X.

Her growing voice in advocacy for mental health, parenting support and women’s rights suggests a possible move into more social-impact projects. Whether through writing, television, or speaking engagements, her evolving career seems focused on helping others navigate challenges – just as she has.

FAQs

Who is Helen Skelton?

Helen Skelton is a British television presenter and adventurer, born on July 19, 1983, in Carlisle, Cumbria. She gained fame as a co-presenter on the BBC children’s program Blue Peter from 2008 to 2013. Since then, she has hosted various BBC shows, including Countryfile, Morning Live, and Lost and Found in the Lakes. Skelton is also known for her adventurous feats, such as kayaking the Amazon River and walking a tightrope for Comic Relief.

What is Helen Skelton’s current relationship status?

As of June 2025, Helen Skelton has been romantically linked to her Morning Live co-host, Gethin Jones. The pair have been spotted together in public, including a recent spa outing, and have shown affection toward each other. Their growing closeness has sparked speculation about a potential relationship, although neither has publicly confirmed it .

What are Helen Skelton’s recent projects?

Helen Skelton is set to return for a second series of her successful BBC One daytime show, Lost and Found in the Lakes. The new 16-part series began filming in late May 2025 and features efforts to return lost items to their owners or transform them creatively if not claimed . Additionally, she continues to co-present Morning Live and has been involved in various charity events, including a Comic Relief challenge that raised £34 million .

How is Helen Skelton perceived on social media?

Helen Skelton maintains an active presence on X (formerly Twitter), where she shares updates about her projects and personal reflections. Her posts often resonate with her followers, who appreciate her candidness and positivity. For instance, she recently shared a message about the value of learning as one ages, which garnered positive feedback from her audience .

What are the latest trends involving Helen Skelton?

On X, the hashtag #HelenSkelton has been trending, with fans discussing her recent activities and speculating about her personal life. The buzz around her potential relationship with Gethin Jones has contributed to the increased attention. Additionally, her involvement in upcoming projects and charity events continues to engage her audience and generate discussions online .

In Summary

Helen Skelton’s enduring popularity lies not only in her media accomplishments but in her humanity. She embodies a very British kind of strength – quiet, determined and always moving forward, no matter the odds. From CBBC adventures to personal setbacks and triumphs, she has grown into one of the UK’s most trusted and admired public figures. As she continues to reinvent herself, audiences remain inspired by her journey – one built not on perfection, but perseverance and heart.

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