From Diddly Squat to Channel 4: Harriet Cowan's New Farming Venture
A breakout star from the hit Amazon Prime series Clarkson's Farm has successfully transitioned to a brand new presenting role on terrestrial television. Harriet Cowan, the 24-year-old nurse and farmer who joined the cast during its fourth series, has been confirmed as a host for Channel 4's digital series Tiny Farmers.
A New Chapter on Channel 4
The new programme, which launched on the broadcaster's YouTube channel on January 19, 2026, sees Cowan team up with comedian Jessica Knappett. Tiny Farmers is described as a heartwarming competition show where four children are challenged to become the egg farmers of the future.
The official press release outlines the format: 'Tiny Farmers sees Harriet and Jessica joined by hen experts Avril and Michael who are sharing how to spot a happy hen and giving insight into an egg’s journey from farm to table. Meanwhile four children are challenged to become egg farmers of the future - from taking on a challenge about looking after the hens to showcasing their cooking skills, this digital content will see how the tiny farmers get on. Will they thrive or scramble under pressure?'
Embracing Agriculture Full-Time
In a significant career shift, Cowan has also publicly announced that she has quit her nursing job to focus entirely on agriculture. Having balanced both professions for several years, she revealed the decision was driven by catching the 'farming bug'.
'The cat's somewhat out of the bag. It's true, I am no longer nursing because it appears I got the bug,' Cowan explained. 'You definitely know what the bug is right, yeah I got the farming bug. And I've always had it but before, you know, I didn't really have any other income.'
Campaigning for British Farming
Since her departure from full-time nursing, Cowan has returned to her family farm in Belper, Derbyshire, and become an advocate for the agricultural sector. She is leading the Farm24 campaign, which encourages farmers across the UK to share content on social media for 24 hours to showcase British farming.
In a powerful message, she stated: 'Going forward I hope that the next generation of farms would be recognised more by the public and the government especially to put British farming on the map. People should be aware that we are here and the government should invest more time and money into farming because we need it. I think it's a bit of a dying industry otherwise.'
From TikTok to Television
Cowan's journey to screen began on social media, where she built a profile as a farmer on TikTok, amassing around 40,000 followers before being approached by the Clarkson's Farm production team. She stepped in to assist Jeremy Clarkson at Diddly Squat Farm in the Cotswolds during the fourth series while regular helper Kaleb Cooper was away.
Reflecting on her experience, Cowan praised Clarkson, saying he is 'very much like every other farmer I’ve ever met' and 'very much willing to learn. He wanted to do well by the farm.' She also humorously noted that 'he’s got the physique of a farmer' too.
Future Plans and Digital Expansion
Looking ahead, Harriet Cowan has confirmed she will be launching her own YouTube channel, 'Harriet On The Farm', on August 31st, documenting life on her family farm. She also plans to continue doing bank shifts for the NHS while dedicating herself to agriculture.
Channel 4 executives have expressed enthusiasm for the new show. Stephen Parnell, Digital Commissioning Executive, commented: 'Harriet and Jessica’s infectious enthusiasm brings to life, connecting brilliantly with our young contestants as they compete to impress both hens and hosts. Working alongside Interstellar TV and The Happy Egg Co. has been a joy, and I can’t wait to share this hilarious - yet heartwarming - show with viewers.'
David Williams, Managing Director at Interstellar TV, added: 'Who knew that chickens, children and cooking would be the perfect recipe for a show full of warm-hearted competition and fun! Harriet, Jessica and our fantastic four Tiny Farmers of the future were on cracking form delighting not just hundreds of happy hens, but everyone watching too.'
Harriet Cowan's story represents a modern evolution of farming advocacy, blending television entertainment with a genuine passion for sustaining British agriculture for future generations.
