Matt Baker, the beloved presenter known for his work on shows like Countryfile and Blue Peter, recently opened up about the challenges of family life as his children navigate their GCSEs and A-levels. During an appearance on Channel 4's Sunday Brunch on April 6, 2025, Baker described this period as a "stressful" time, referring to it as a "double whammy" for his household.
The 47-year-old father of Luke and Molly, whom he shares with his wife Nicola Mooney, expressed his support for his daughter as she tackles her GCSEs. "I’m the quiz master," he shared, mentioning that they are using a flashcard system to prepare. Baker reflected on his own experiences during exams, stating, "It’s quite good to remember that time in your life when you were sitting them." He emphasized the importance of keeping the atmosphere light, saying, "I’m trying to remain as chill as possible because there’s still a bit of time to go. It’s on the horizon, and it’s getting closer."
In a light-hearted exchange with hosts Tim Lovejoy and Simon Rimmer, Baker noted the stress associated with exams, acknowledging that it’s a critical time for his children. "It is a stressful time, it’s the biggest time for them in that part of their life. But I’m sure they’ll do alright. Whatever they do, they work hard," he reassured.
Baker and Nicola, who met as teenagers, have been married since 2004. In a heartfelt interview with The Express in 2011, he expressed gratitude for having met her before his rise to fame, saying, "I’m so lucky that I met my wife Nicola before any of this telly lark started. I knew way back then she was the one and I don’t think I could have done all this without her." The couple shares two children: Luke, 17, and Molly, 15.
Interestingly, the Baker family made a significant move in 2021, relocating from their home in the Chilterns to the Durham countryside. This decision came as they sought to assist Baker's father with the farm after his mother suffered injuries from being trampled by a flock of sheep.
In addition to discussing his family life, Baker spoke about his career journey, which began when he moved to a farm west of Durham with his parents at the age of 10. He later transitioned to London to pursue a career in media, landing a role on Blue Peter. Reflecting on this move, he described it as a "shock to the system". "When I first moved from the Durham Dales to a flat in London to work on Blue Peter, it was a shock to the system, and a really unhappy time because I wasn't used to living like that," he recalled in an interview with HouseBeautiful.
Baker spent seven years on Blue Peter before becoming a reporter on The One Show, a role he held for nine years. Since 2009, he has been a familiar face on Countryfile. Currently, he is the host of Our Dream Farm, a competition in which seven hopefuls are vying for the chance to win a 600-acre dream farm located in the stunning Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park in North Wales.
In the most recent episode of Our Dream Farm, which aired on April 5, 2025, the remaining six contestants welcomed a new sow and nine piglets to the farm. They were tasked with constructing the ideal pig pen and shelter for the newcomers. Additionally, the contestants traveled to the picturesque village of Portmeirion to showcase their sales skills, which are crucial as most applicants proposed direct selling as part of their business plans.
Baker’s experiences in both his personal and professional life highlight his deep connection to nature and farming. He has often stated that he is "happiest in nature" and finds joy in observing the changing seasons and the journey of food from source to table. "I didn’t realize how much a part of my life the countryside and farming were until they weren’t there," he remarked, emphasizing the significant impact of his rural upbringing on his life and career.
As the family navigates this stressful period of exams, Baker's commitment to supporting his children while maintaining a fun atmosphere speaks volumes about his parenting style. With a balance of humor and seriousness, he continues to cherish both his family life and his career in the media, proving that even the busiest presenters can prioritize family amidst their professional commitments.
As fans of Baker eagerly tune in to Our Dream Farm, they are reminded of the importance of community, family, and the joys of rural life. With each episode, viewers not only witness the contestants' challenges but also get a glimpse of Baker's dedication to his family and his passion for the countryside.
