More About Matt Baker

Originally wanting to be a physiotherapist, Matt Baker was spotted during his studies at drama school and joined Blue Peter in 1999, alongside Konnie Huq, Simon Thomas, and Gethin Jones.

Whilst on the show, he participated in challenges such as training to be a stuntman, learning to fly a hang glider, and taking part in the recruitment courses for the Royal Marines and the Parachute Regiment. He left the show at the end of the 2005-06 series.

He is now best known for presenting The One Show (2011-2020), and Countryfile (2009-present). But he has presented a whole range of programmes during this time, including Evacuation (2006-08) and Secret Britain (2010).

He has also fronted the television coverage of Crufts (2007-08), Animal Rescue Live (2007), Big Blue Live (2015), and Wild Alaska Live (2017). More recently, he has presented documentaries featuring his family, including Our Farm in the Dales (2021-present), Travels With Mum and Dad (2022-present), Travels in the Country: USA (2023), and Our Dream Farm With Matt Baker (2024).

His documentaries then stemmed a book – A Year On Our Farm: How the Countryside Made Me (2021), which provides an insight into his life outside of our television screens.

In 2010, Matt took part in the eighth series of popular television show Strictly Come Dancing, where he was partnered with professional dancer Aliona Vilani. After a successful run, Matt and Aliona made it to the final, finishing in second place.

Due to his personal background in gymnastics – he was one a British gymnastics and sports acrobatics champion – he has been a regular feature covering national and international gymnastic competitions. He has commentated for the sport at the 2008, 2012, 2016, and 2020 Summer Olympics; the 2014 and 2022 Commonwealth Games; the 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2022 World Championships; the 2018 and 2019 World Cup; and the 2018 and 2019 European Championships.

Matt has hosted many live concerts with the BBC National Road Shows, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, Family Proms in Hyde Park, and numerous Proms from the Royal Albert Hall. He presented at the Olympic Victory Parade 2012, co-hosted Sport Relief in 2012, and the Diamond Jubilee Thame Pageant in 2012.

MATT BAKER | CHARITY WORK

Matt has been heavily involved with Children In Need, taking part in the reality programme Around the World in 80 Days, travelling the Kazakhstan to Mongolia leg with Julia Bradbury. He has also fronted the Children In Need/The One Show fundraising effort of The Rickshaw Challenge, raising over £45 million for the charity.

In 2011 he was elected the president for the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs, and is president for Here4Horses.

He was appointed and MBE in 2022 for his charitable and voluntary services to fundraising.

MATT BAKER | CORPORATE WORK

Matt’s experience and his multi-skill range has made him comfortable in front of or behind the camera. With a likeable nature, sharp editorial instincts, creativity, and a fascinating storytelling ability, Matt is perfect for all occasions.

Call +44 1753 439 289 or email Great British Speakers now to book Farming and Countryfile presenter Matt Baker for your next live event.

Contact us.