Stacey Solomon and Joe Swash have opened the doors to their family life in a new BBC documentary series, "Stacey & Joe," which aired its first episode on April 1, 2025. The show offers a candid look at their blended family, featuring their five children and the unique challenges they face in their Essex home, affectionately dubbed Pickle Cottage.
Viewers were immediately drawn into the chaos and joy of family life as the couple navigated parenting, work commitments, and their personal relationship. However, the absence of Joe's son, Harry, from the show sparked confusion among fans. During the premiere, Stacey and Joe mentioned their five children, which include Stacey's sons Zachary and Leighton, and their own children, Rex, Rose, and Belle. One viewer on social media questioned, "What about mentioning Joe's son Harry?" Harry, who is 17 years old, was not featured due to personal wishes that Stacey has previously discussed.
Stacey explained on social media, "I got loads and loads of comments asking about all of our children in my photos. Unfortunately, it’s not something I’m able to do, otherwise I’d do it all the time. All the kids are a massive part of our lives, obviously, and we love them all equally and adore them. But publicly, that’s not something that I can do, and I totally respect that. We respect everyone’s wishes; we’re a blended family, and sometimes that’s a bit more complicated than it seems." This thoughtful approach highlights the complexities of modern blended families.
The show not only showcases the joys of parenting but also the difficulties Stacey faces as a working mother. In one episode, she expressed her frustrations when Joe went on an overnight fishing trip, leaving her to manage the household alone. "I was really nervous about bringing Joe into Zach and Leighton's lives," she shared, reflecting on her initial concerns about introducing him to her children. However, she has since seen how well he integrates into their family dynamics.
Joe, who has been described as a "man-child" in various reviews, openly admits that he has a different parenting style compared to Stacey. He expressed his feelings towards Zachary and Leighton, saying, "They may not be my biological kids, but I’m telling you – if I’d had the choice, I’d have had them." This sentiment was echoed when Leighton affectionately referred to Joe as his "second dad." Despite the challenges, the couple has managed to create a loving and supportive environment for their children.
Stacey's journey to motherhood has been a significant part of her identity. On March 31, 2025, she shared a heartfelt post on Instagram, calling her children her "world" and reflecting on her experience as a mother. She noted, "You are my world Zach, Leighton, Rex, Rose & Belle," and encouraged other mothers to believe in themselves, stating, "To any mum out there who hasn’t heard it in a while. You’re f*cking smashing it. Even on the days you think you’re at your worst. You are still their EVERYTHING." This message resonated with many of her followers, showcasing her relatability and authenticity.
The series also highlights the couple's efforts to balance their professional lives with family responsibilities. As Stacey works on her new passion project—a perfume line—she faces the reality of juggling work and parenting. The first episode featured her preparing for an important meeting while managing the chaos of her children, who were not always cooperative. This relatable struggle is something many parents can identify with.
As the show progresses, viewers will see how Stacey and Joe celebrate milestones, including their second wedding anniversary, and navigate the daily ups and downs of family life. Stacey's organizational skills shine through as she manages the children's schedules and their household, often seen arranging their clothes and preparing for family outings.
While Stacey's parenting style is described as firm, Joe's softer approach sometimes leads to humorous, albeit chaotic, situations. The couple's differing methods of discipline came to light during a scene where Stacey had to confront Zach about chores after he had a party with his friends. "If you swear one more time, Zach, no I’m not joking," she warned, showcasing her no-nonsense attitude when it comes to parenting.
Despite the challenges, the show paints a picture of a happy family, albeit one that is not without its difficulties. Critics have noted that while the show captures the essence of family life, it also highlights the chaos that often accompanies it. One review remarked, "The show feels as if the BBC is simply cashing in on her appeal without enough material to sustain a whole series." However, Stacey's charm and relatability continue to draw viewers in, making them feel like part of the family.
As the series unfolds, audiences can expect to see more of the heartwarming and humorous moments that define Stacey and Joe's life together, along with the realities of raising a blended family. With their five children, pets, and the occasional chaos that comes with it, "Stacey & Joe" promises to be an engaging look into the lives of one of the UK's most beloved couples.
In summary, "Stacey & Joe" offers a unique glimpse into the challenges and joys of parenting in a blended family. As Stacey and Joe navigate their busy lives, they remind us that family is about love, support, and understanding, even amidst the chaos of everyday life.
