Nick Knowles, the 63-year-old presenter of BBC's DIY SOS, has spoken exclusively about his deep admiration for his wife Katie, 35, as he steps back from television to care for her following a year of major health struggles. The couple, who married in 2025, have faced significant challenges, but Nick says Katie's courage in speaking publicly about her conditions has inspired him.
“I’m very, very happy,” Nick told the Mirror at the TRIC Awards in London. “She’s been through so much this year with operations and health issues, but she’s been determined to help other people by speaking publicly about them.”
Katie's Health Journey and Advocacy
Katie, a former lingerie entrepreneur turned author, has openly discussed living with endometriosis and adenomyosis, and underwent an early hysterectomy last summer. She has also revealed being raped by her father as a child, a disclosure that received overwhelming public support. Nick noted, “You get 99% support and maybe one idiot, but overwhelmingly the response has been incredibly positive.”
Nick explained that Katie felt empowered by other women sharing their stories on social media, and she now advocates for more research and awareness. “I completely support everything she’s doing,” he added.
Nick's Temporary TV Hiatus
Last week, Nick announced he would “disappear” from TV to focus on Katie's care. “I've been looking after my wife a lot because she has been through it. She's had a lot of tough times. She's got another operation coming up,” he said. New episodes of DIY SOS are still planned for autumn, but Nick has taken a break from filming.
During this time, he has explored acting, taking a role in an independent film that supports children with disabilities and neurodivergent conditions. He plays a widowed father raising a neurodivergent daughter, which he describes as “moving and rewarding.” The film is expected to screen at the Fastnet Film Festival and the London Film Festival.
Personal Life and DNA Surprise
The couple recently took DNA tests, which revealed Nick has more Neanderthal DNA than 85% of the population. He joked, “I suppose the Neanderthal DNA explains why I played rugby for 40 years and why I look the way I do!” Katie's heritage proved more diverse, including Nigerian and Danish roots.
Nick moved from the Cotswolds to live near Windsor to be closer to Katie's children from a previous relationship. “It made sense,” he said. The couple now describe themselves as “homebodies,” enjoying time in their garden and staying home during the summer heatwave.
No Plans for Reality TV or Singing
Despite his appearance on Strictly Come Dancing in 2024, Nick insists he won't sing again, having auctioned off that promise for £500. He also rules out more reality TV, saying, “It's not really on the cards.” Instead, he focuses on family and supporting Katie, whom he calls “a wonderful woman.”
