Jodie Kidd grew up in Guildford, Surrey in a family with strong connections to both business and the arts. Her father, John Kidd, was a businessman, and her mother, Wendy Madeline Hodge, came from a lineage linked to British aristocracy. Jodie’s upbringing provided her with exposure to both traditional and contemporary influences, fostering the confidence and independence that would later shape her career.

Jodie Kidd | Modelling Career

Jodie entered the modelling industry at the age of 15 after being discovered by photographer Terry O’Neill. Her striking looks, statuesque frame, and distinctive presence quickly caught the attention of the fashion world. In the 1990s, she became a highly sought-after figure on international runways, working with leading designers and appearing in major campaigns.

Although she was initially typecast for her extremely slender appearance during the height of the “heroin chic” era, Jodie went on to redefine her image, becoming known for her elegance, professionalism, and adaptability in an industry often focused on trends. She has graced the covers of numerous fashion magazines and worked with some of the most prestigious brands in the world such as Yves Saint Laurent, Chanel, Gucci, Versace and Alexander McQueen, walking their runways and appearing in campaigns.

She featured on the covers of Vogue, Elle and Harper’s Bazaar, as well as in campaigns for labels like Nicole Farhi and Chanel fragrance.

Jodie Kidd | Motorsports

Jodie’s love of cars and motorsport has been a defining feature of her career beyond modelling. She has taken part in various racing events and car rallies, showcasing her skills behind the wheel. Jodie competed in the Gumball 3000 rally and appeared on Top Gear, where she set an impressive lap time on the programme’s “Star in a Reasonably Priced Car” segment. Her performance highlighted her natural talent for driving and further cemented her reputation as a genuine automotive enthusiast rather than a celebrity dabbling in motorsport.

In addition, Jodie has presented motoring-related television programmes and has built a significant following among car enthusiasts. Her authenticity and knowledge have earned her credibility within the automotive industry, where she often represents brands at launches, events, and corporate functions.

Jodie Kidd | Media

Alongside her modelling and motoring pursuits, Jodie has appeared in numerous television programmes. She has been a contestant on reality and competition shows such as Strictly Come Dancing, Friday Night With Jonathan Ross Celebrity MasterChef, The One Show and Who Do You Think You Are.

Her presenting work has included lifestyle and motoring programmes, where she has combined her love of cars with her natural charisma in front of the camera. She presented her own US show Fashion Avenue (2005), presented the BBC3 documentary I Believe in Miracle Healing (2010), co-presented Channel 5’s The Classic Car Show and ITV’s coverage of the Isle of Man TT.

Jodie Kidd |

Beyond motorsport, Jodie embraces a variety of outdoor challenges, from equestrian sports and skiing to adventure travel. She embodies a spirit of resilience and exploration that complements her public persona as both an athlete and an adventurer. Her physical challenges and adventure-based pursuits showcase her determination and love of the outdoors. She has taken part in demanding endurance events, including long-distance charity bike rides, car rallies such as the Gumball 3000, and gruelling trekking expeditions, often raising funds and awareness for causes close to her heart.

Endurance challenges she has taken part in include the L’Etape du Tour, the Burma Bike Ride, the Big Battlefield Bike Ride, and Mount Kilimanjaro.

Jodie Kidd | Pub Landlady

In 2017 Jodie became the landlady of The Half Moon pub in Kirdford, West Sussex, which has been awarded two rosettes by the AA. She became very invested in the ‘Long Live the Local’ campaign asking for investment to allow local pubs and breweries to grow in communities.

Call +44 1753 439 289 or email Great British Speakers now to book Jodie Kidd for your next live event.

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