COUNTRYFILE star Matt Baker has revealed why his kids won’t be nepo babies – as he addresses whether they will follow his career path.
Matt, 46, has been a presenter on the long-running BBC agricultural show since 2009.
Speaking exclusively to The Sun Online, he opened up about his two children potentially following in his footsteps – and why they will not become nepo babies.
The presenter is teaming up with his parents for Matt Baker: Christmas Travels with Mum and Dad, airing tonight (December 9).
While Matt – who is dad to teenagers Luke and Molly – said of his children: “I encourage them to try all sorts of different things.
“I want them to make up their own mind based on their instinct and what their instinct’s telling them to do.
“Who knows what they’ll do? I don’t, I really don’t and I’m certainly not pressuring them to do it, that’s for sure.”
He added: “I think its important that they find what they want to do in their own way, do you know what I mean?
“I think that’s the way. They see it every day, they know how much you work, how hard you work, what you do and where you go.
“They’ve grown up in that world so they’re very aware of it.
“If they decide they want to do it, it’s entirely up to them.”
Matt’s sentiments about his children echo Take That legend Gary Barlow – whose three children decided to snub fame.
Speaking to The Mirror, Gary revealed his two eldest children had pursued medicine and physiology, while he described his third as “very studious”.
He added: “I don’t think they will follow in my music footsteps, but I wouldn’t have discouraged them if they did want to, it’s been a good business for me.”
As for Matt, while his kids may not be entering the family business, he is no stranger to working with relatives.
Alongside parents Janice and Mike, he fronted the popular Channel 4 series Matt Baker: Travels with Mum and Dad.
The show ended earlier this year, however, the trio return for a festive edition showcasing two special Christmas travels.
In their first outing, the Bakers accept an invitation to board the Royal Yacht Brittania.
This takes them behind the scenes on the ship as it prepares for the festive season.
They also visit family tartan makers supplying the King, as well as Edinburgh‘s sole herd of Highland cattle.
Additionally, the family pay a visit to the coastal village of Robin Hood’s Bay as it gears up for its Christmas festival.
This trip features jewellery crafted from local gemstones, traditional games, sea shanty singers and knitting Christmas gansey jumpers.
In his chat with The Sun Online, Matt also reflected on his own background.
He said: “Growing up, I’ve got that work ethic. With my sport and growing up on the farm, you get that sort of drive.
“You put the effort in, you get a result. That becomes very clear to you.
1999 – Joined Blue Peter as a presenter
2005 – Played himself in an episode of Doctor Who
2006 – Joined The One Show as a reporter
2009 – Became the co-host of Countryfile
2010 – Took part in Strictly Come Dancing
2011 – Became a permanent presenter of The One Show
2015 – Hosted The Gift with Mel Giedroyc
2019 – Stand in presenter for Classic FM and Magic Breakfast
2020 – Hosted The Big Night In
2020 – Left The One Show
2021 – Fronting Travels with Mum and Dad for Channel 4
“Those are strong foundations to go and make your own luck and work hard.
“You’re not work shy and that’s the key.
“Then it pays off down the line.”
Matt Baker: Christmas Travels with Mum and Dad airs on Channel 4 , December 9, at 9pm.
