Josh Widdicombe’s Dad Calls Him a Show‑Off

Josh Widdicombe, now a co‑host on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, has surprised his father Tom, a Devon market stall owner, with his glamorous TV career. The article explores the family dynamic, Widdicombe’s business empire, and the contrast between his humble beginnings and his current fame.

By Felo News Desk · Published Sat, 26 Sep 2026 13:42:24 GMT

When the BBC announced that comedian Josh Widdicombe would co‑host Strictly Come Dancing, many viewers were surprised. The 43‑year‑old, known for his thick‑rimmed glasses and a wardrobe once compared to a “Bilbo Baggins update,” seemed an odd fit for a show dominated by sequins and spray tans. Yet behind the disheveled exterior lies a polished operation worth an estimated £12 million.

From Market Stall to Mainstream TV

Widdicombe’s father, Tom, still runs a vintage tools stall in Totnes, Devon. The 76‑year‑old describes himself as a “full‑on hippy” from the 1960s, a former Glastonbury Festival attendee, and a climate‑change activist. He watches his son’s rise with a mix of amusement and disbelief. “So many people come up to me, ask about Strictly, and try to weave in a joke about my stall,” Tom told the local magazine Totnes Pulse. “It feels like they’re asking if my son’s earnings are anything to do with me.”

Despite the contrast, Tom and Josh share a love of showing off. Tom said, “I’ve learned from him that he doesn’t mind showing off. In the TV industry you’re treated like royalty—chauffeurs, hotels, a professional chain. He’s very professional in everything he does.” He added that his own stall is a form of show‑off, “I show off like hell.”

Building a Business Empire

Widdicombe’s career extends far beyond stand‑up. He has appeared on 30 seasons of Channel 4’s The Last Leg, QI, Have I Got News for You, and live arena tours. In 2020 he launched the hit podcast Parenting Hell with fellow comedian Rob Beckett, turning the chaos of parenthood into comedy. The podcast has spawned live shows and a best‑selling book.

Companies House filings reveal a diversified portfolio. His main company, Troublems Limited, held £5.8 million in assets as of March last year. Penrose Lodging Limited, a property company, had £2.7 million, including an £850,000 six‑bedroom villa marketed as “Cornwall’s most stylish rental.” Widdicombe also purchased Noel Edmonds’s former Exeter home for £2.95 million, after selling a five‑bedroom Hackney property for £2.3 million.

Personal Challenges Behind the Spotlight

Despite his wealth, Widdicombe admits money remains a source of anxiety. He has spoken openly about delaying tax payments and the mental toll of his workload. In a 2024 interview with Metro, he described a period of burnout, anxiety, panic attacks, and insomnia that led him to quit alcohol. “I was driving at 70 miles per hour while trying to fix the engine,” he said, highlighting the unsustainable pace of his career.

He has also discussed the stigma of antidepressants, noting that early acceptance could have eased his struggles. “I wish I’d realised earlier that there was nothing wrong with taking medication,” he reflected.

Mixed Reactions to the Strictly Role

Widdicombe’s debut in the 2024 Christmas special, dancing the Charleston as a penguin, drew mixed reviews. Former pro dancer Brendan Cole described him as “a bit like a lamb to the slaughter,” noting that while Widdicombe is a good presenter, he feels out of place next to flamboyant co‑host Johannes Radebe and seasoned presenter Emma Willis.

Tom, however, has chosen not to watch the show. “No, I don’t,” he said. “Until you reach Josh’s level, you have to say yes. If you’re at his level, you can pick and choose.” He remains supportive of his son’s career, joking that anyone who needs an old hippy can “give me a shout.”

What’s Next for the Widdicombe Family?

As Widdicombe continues to balance his new television role with his business ventures and family life, the family dynamic remains a point of interest. With a daughter, Pearl, and a son, Cassius, and a wife who is a television producer, the Widdicombe household is as busy as it is diverse. The next steps for Josh will likely involve further expansion of his media empire while navigating the demands of a high‑profile TV schedule.

For Tom, the future may involve expanding his market stall or exploring new ventures, all while keeping his “hippy” roots intact. The contrast between the father’s modest market life and the son’s glittering TV career offers a unique lens on the changing nature of fame and entrepreneurship in the UK.

Ultimately, the story highlights how talent, hard work, and a willingness to show off can propel an individual from a small Devon stall to the national spotlight, even as family members navigate the complexities of newfound fame.

Key facts

Josh Widdicombe’s rise to Strictly host surprised his Devon‑based father
Widdicombe’s diversified business portfolio is worth £12 million
He openly discusses mental health struggles behind his success
Mixed reviews highlight the challenges of transitioning to TV presenting
Tom remains supportive but chooses not to watch his son’s show

Why it matters

The piece showcases how a comedian’s humble beginnings can evolve into a multi‑million‑pound empire, offering insight into the interplay between family dynamics, media exposure, and personal growth.

Frequently asked questions

What is Josh Widdicombe’s net worth?

Companies House filings estimate his net worth at around £12 million, with assets in property, media, and entertainment.

Why does Tom Widdicombe not watch Strictly?

He says he doesn’t watch the show because he prefers to focus on his own interests and believes that once you reach Josh’s level, you can choose what to watch.