Since bursting onto our screens on Big Brother in 2010, Josie Gibson has become one of TV’s most recognisable faces. Now 41, the presenter is busier than ever, juggling multiple shows while navigating life as a single mum.
Josie’s main priority is her seven-year-old son, Reggie James, whom she shares with ex-boyfriend Terry Bond. “Every day is a juggle – any parent knows that. It’s so difficult, especially when I’m on my own with Reg,” she tells Closer. “Running him to clubs, trying to hold down a career – it’s a massive juggling act.”
Despite the pressures of parenting, Josie has found innovative ways to stay active. Circuit training sessions have become a bonding ritual, with Reggie joining his mum in mini-workouts. “It’s so cute. If I try and stop, he says, ‘Come on Mum, get up!’ He’s like my little personal trainer,” she says with a smile. Josie is also passionate about encouraging young people to stay active, supporting Iceland’s Kits for Kids campaign, which provides grassroots football teams with new kits. “It’s so important to get our kids into sports. Reggie loves football and is part of a local tennis club too.”
Her own fitness journey has been far from easy. Over the years, Josie has lost around five stone and openly discussed her body transformation. Earlier this year, she revealed a lipoedema diagnosis – a chronic condition causing abnormal fat build-up in the legs and arms. This led her to undergo surgery on her calves and arms, a decision she described as a last resort.
“I healed really fast. I did throw everything at it because I’m a working mum. I had to go back to work after just two weeks,” she explains, reflecting on the challenge of balancing recovery with a demanding schedule.
A Friend and Lifeline: Alison Hammond
Josie credits her support system, especially her This Morning co-star Alison Hammond, as vital to keeping her grounded. The two former Big Brother contestants have forged a close bond over the years.
“Alison is the loveliest woman on the planet,” Josie says. “When I need a pick-me-up, I can phone her and she makes me feel a million pounds. She manages to make everything go away.” The friendship has been a lifeline for Josie, providing positivity and support in both professional and personal spheres.
Career Success and Passion Projects
While she remains a familiar face alongside Alison on This Morning, Josie has expanded her repertoire with solo projects. Her travel shows, Josie Gibson’s Big Country Build, and lifestyle programmes like How To Clean Up For Cash and Josie’s Taste of the Westcountry showcase her versatility.
Josie credits The Taste Of Ireland as inspiration for her Westcountry series. “I saw Dermot O’Leary do a Taste of Ireland and thought, ‘Hello! I can do a Taste of the Westcountry!’” she laughs. “It’s been a passion project. I’ve learned so much from the people I’ve met along the way, and I hope the show honors their stories too.”
Balancing Parenthood and Ambition
Josie’s daily life is a whirlwind of filming, media appearances, and parenting. “I don’t know where I am one minute to the next,” she admits. “I’m running around from one place to another, trying to hold it together.” Despite the chaos, she continues to keep her son active and engaged, ensuring that family time and fitness are never neglected.
Her dedication to health, charity, and family resonates with fans. By involving Reggie in her workouts and supporting campaigns like Kits for Kids, Josie highlights the importance of nurturing a healthy lifestyle from a young age.
Looking Ahead
Josie remains tight-lipped about her next moves but hints at exciting projects on the horizon. Rumours of a Strictly Come Dancing appearance swirl, but for now, she prefers to keep fans guessing. “I’ve got quite a few things in the pipeline,” she teases, “but you know how it is – not allowed to say anything!”
Her career trajectory, resilience, and dedication to her family continue to inspire. Josie Gibson is more than a TV personality – she is a model of determination, juggling the pressures of single parenthood, career, and personal health with grace and humour.
Campaign Spotlight:
Josie’s support for Iceland’s Kits for Kids campaign is a cause close to her heart. Grassroots football teams can apply for free kits by submitting their club’s details and a short entry explaining why they need the upgrade. Josie hopes to empower young players to enjoy the game with pride and confidence.
