Fern Britton survived TV in the 1980s with an appealing mix of warmth, no-nonsense capability, and a hint of danger. On the daytime TV behemoth that is This Morning, Britton always stood out as a presenter who could charm viewers while keeping a steeliness beneath the surface. Her career spanned decades, from early roles in regional television to becoming a household name alongside Phillip Schofield.
Early Career and Breakthrough
Britton began her television journey in the 1980s, a time when female presenters faced immense pressure to conform. She worked her way up through local news and magazine shows, eventually landing a spot on This Morning in 1999. Her on-screen chemistry with co-host Phillip Schofield made the show a ratings success, but behind the scenes, tensions brewed.
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The Scorched-Earth Resignation
In 2009, Britton shocked the industry by resigning from This Morning without a backup plan. Amid rumors of a feud with Schofield, she walked away from a high-paying job. “I’m not scared of the future,” she said. “I’m not scared of stepping into nothing.” This bold move defined her resilience.
| Key Milestone | Year | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Joined This Morning | 1999 | Became a top daytime TV host |
| Resigned from show | 2009 | Left without a new job |
| Published first novel | 2014 | Transitioned to author |
Life After Television
After leaving This Morning, Britton hosted her own chatshow and presented BBC Two’s The Big Allotment Challenge. She also became a successful author, writing 12 novels. Today, she lives in Cornwall, enjoying a quieter life with tea and M&S fruit loaf.
Personal Challenges and Resilience
Britton’s 60s brought turbulence: the deaths of her parents and the end of her marriage to TV chef Phil Vickery. She entered an “era of indolence,” but reversed course by quitting smoking and exercising again. “You get through troubled water,” she reflects. “I’m getting tougher and less worried about things.”
- Key Takeaway: Fern Britton’s career shows the power of taking risks and walking away when necessary.
- Key Takeaway: She survived the 1980s TV industry by blending warmth with steeliness.
- Key Takeaway: Her post-TV life as an author proves reinvention is possible at any age.
FAQ
What made Fern Britton resign from This Morning?
Britton resigned abruptly in 2009 amid rumors of a feud with co-host Phillip Schofield, choosing to walk away without a new job lined up.
How did Fern Britton survive TV in the 1980s?
She survived by being warm yet no-nonsense, working her way up from regional TV to become a star on This Morning.
What is Fern Britton doing now?
She lives in Cornwall, working on her 12th novel, and enjoys a peaceful life with close friends.