Matt Allwright, a familiar face on British television, has built a career exposing scams and championing consumers on BBC's Rogue Traders and Watchdog, as well as hosting his own daily show on Channel 5. While audiences know him for his bold journalism and straightforward manner, his life away from the cameras is markedly different.
Understated Wedding in Gretna Green
In 2016, Allwright spoke candidly about his marriage, revealing that he and his wife wed at Gretna Green and honeymooned in Glasgow. He told the Sunday Post: "My wife and I got married in Gretna and honeymooned in Glasgow. Looking back, we could have gone to islands like Skye or Arran. But I was so pleased we did it at Gretna because the people were so lovely. The photographer and the receptionist were our witnesses." He added: "As for our honeymoon destination, I wouldn't have changed Glasgow for the world. We stayed in a place near the Botanic Gardens and everything about our stay was magical. We went to some lovely restaurants and had some great nights out."
Protecting His Family
Allwright keeps much of his private life out of the public eye, but past interviews indicate he has two children with his wife. Discussing his parenting approach, he remarked: "I've always found that when they're old enough to ask, they're old enough to know. Also, that vegetable double bluff thing where you say, 'Whatever you do, don't eat those carrots!' stops working after the age of six." He also explained why he keeps his children off social media, telling the Belfast Telegraph: "I do whatever I can to protect my family. That's the most important thing. Also, I think once you put them out there, you can't ask for them back, especially now because everything's online. The kids didn't ask to be born into a family with a dad that goes and confronts people, so I'm never going to assume that they are happy to be part of that."
Hidden Musical Talent
Beyond television, Allwright is an enthusiastic musician. On his website, he wrote: "I have been making music of one sort or another since I was tiny. I've been recording and performing live on my pedal steel guitar since 2017. Not long, really. Pedal Steel is the world's most difficult instrument, and I play it with Band of Hope and others. I'll do it for you if you like." He also co-founded The Walnuts with Davie McGirr to perform for Alzheimer's Research, touring across the UK, France, Spain, Germany, Holland, Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. In addition, Allwright leads an active lifestyle, regularly kayaking, cycling, and playing tennis.
