Sue and Noel Radford have become household names across the United Kingdom, captivating audiences for over a decade with their reality TV series, 22 Kids & Counting. As the heads of one of Britain's largest families, their lives have been documented extensively, but recent accusations of a publicity stunt involving their daughter Millie's split have sparked curiosity about how the family sustains their lifestyle financially.
The Radford Family's Television Journey
The Radfords first entered the public eye in 2012 with a Channel 4 documentary titled 15 Kids & Counting. Since then, the show has evolved into a multi-series format on Channel 5, now in its eighth season, which premieres on 1st February. The programme chronicles the daily lives of Sue, Noel, and their 22 children, including milestones such as pregnancies and family dynamics, though it has faced criticism for allegedly fabricating events for content.
Accusations of a Publicity Stunt
Recently, the family was embroiled in controversy when daughter Millie Radford split from her partner, Harley Passmore. Fans accused the couple of faking the breakup to generate drama for the TV show, labelling it a publicity stunt. While Millie has remained silent, Harley took to Instagram to deny the claims, insisting the separation was genuine. This incident has led many to question the authenticity of the show and how the Radfords manage their finances away from the cameras.
Primary Income Sources for the Radford Family
Despite the speculation, the Radfords have built a substantial net worth, estimated to include a £1 million home and lavish holidays, without relying on external assistance. Their income streams are diverse and well-established.
The Radford Pie Company
At the core of their earnings is The Radford Pie Company, a bakery business acquired by Noel in 1999. Located in Heysham, Lancashire, near their family home, Noel has run the bakery professionally for over 25 years. Sue oversees orders and acts as a taste tester, while several family members, including daughter Chloe, have been employed there. Although exact earnings are undisclosed, the family's outgoings exceed £1 million annually, indicating a profitable venture.
Television and Media Earnings
The family's TV career provides a significant income, with reports suggesting they could earn up to £5,000 per episode from Channel 5. Additionally, Sue has authored books about her life as a mother of 22, further boosting their revenue. Their social media presence, with nearly 400,000 YouTube subscribers and half a million Instagram followers, likely nets them lucrative advertising deals, contributing to their financial comfort.
Contributions from Family Members
To help with household expenses, some of the older children who still live at home pay a small amount of board. As Chloe mentioned on the show, this allows them to save for their own homes while supporting the family's substantial bills. Sue and Noel emphasise the importance of financial responsibility, encouraging their children to contribute if they are earning.
Future Prospects and Fan Reactions
With the new series of 22 Kids & Counting set to air, fans have expressed excitement on social media, though some have criticised the show for its inconsistent scheduling. Sue's recent Instagram update confirmed the premiere, highlighting the ongoing interest in the family's story. As they continue to navigate public scrutiny, the Radfords remain a fixture in British entertainment, blending family life with business acumen to maintain their wealth and fame.
