Matt Baker is returning to The One Show to mark its milestone anniversary, having previously opened up about the "life-changing" decision to leave the programme.
During a repeat episode of Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh, the Countryfile presenter discussed his move from London back to his parents' farm in the Durham Dales. Host Alan Titchmarsh highlighted the stark contrast between sitting on The One Show sofa every evening and running the family farm, calling it a "big decision to have to make."
Baker, however, explained that for him the decision felt like the reverse. "To be honest with you, Alan, it was kind of the reverse of that," he admitted. He ultimately left the show after nine years to reclaim his family life, step behind the camera, and help run the farm.
Return for 20th anniversary
Baker's journey began around 20 years earlier when he left home for London to join Blue Peter, a city that felt completely removed from his rural upbringing. He has since built a successful career presenting Countryfile and family-focused countryside programmes.
Now, he is set to reunite with Christine Lampard as part of The One Show's 20th anniversary celebrations. Baker originally joined the show in 2011, and his return will feature in a week of special episodes beginning Monday, August 10 at 7pm, hosted by Alex Jones and Roman Kemp.
Special episodes and celebrations
The week will include celebrity guests, former presenters, and memorable stories from the show's two decades on air, with reporters travelling across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. It will culminate on Friday, August 14 with the hour-long The One Show at 20, featuring Angellica Bell, Clara Amfo, JB Gill, Lauren Laverne and Vernon Kay.
Viewers can also expect a surprise live music performance, a special film from Adrian Chiles, and the return of Christine and Matt to the famous sofa. Alex Jones said: "I'm looking forward to reminiscing, reminding myself of brilliant moments and having some of the past presenters back with us, alongside the current team." She added, "I feel like I've grown up on the show."
Roman Kemp described being part of the anniversary as "a huge privilege" and said the programme had taught him a great deal about Britain and its people. The celebrations will also continue on BBC Radio 2 with Alex Jones' Tracks of My Years, while Bargain Hunt: 20 Years of The One Show is available on BBC iPlayer.
