Bargain Hunt star Izzie Balmer has revealed that her initial career path in music was not for her, leading her to pursue a successful television career in antiques. The 34-year-old jewellery expert, known for her appearances on Bargain Hunt and Flog It!, admitted she once planned to be a professional musician but disliked music college.
Speaking to Great British Life, Balmer said: 'I planned to be a professional musician but didn't enjoy music college. It wasn't for me.' Her entry into television came unexpectedly when she stepped in for her boss to auctioneer on Bargain Hunt after no other auctioneers were available.
Growing up in Quarndon, Derby, Balmer was encouraged by her mother to explore antiques. After graduating from university and completing a work experience stint at a local auction house, she secured a full-time role, which sparked her passion for the field. She later studied at Birmingham's School of Jewellery.
Balmer has since built a dedicated fan base, with a Facebook group named the Izzie Balmer Appreciation Society created in her honour. In a 2019 interview, she said: 'I kind of fell into this job but I absolutely love it. I cannot think of anything I would rather do.'
