Kaleb Cooper has spoken out after the nation learned of Jeremy Clarkson's cancer diagnosis, offering an update on the television personality's wellbeing. Clarkson disclosed his diagnosis with 'aggressive' prostate cancer, a revelation that has deeply affected those close to him.
Kaleb's Update on Jeremy's Health
Speaking exclusively to The Mirror, Kaleb revealed he had recently seen Jeremy at a farming event and noted that the former Top Gear host, 66, was remaining upbeat. 'I've seen him today, and I've seen him at Cereals, and his spirits are high, which is good,' Kaleb said.
The diagnosis features prominently in the latest series of Clarkson's Farm, with the emotional storyline unveiled in this week's dramatic episode. Kaleb admitted it was tough to watch his friend navigate such a difficult period. 'I think anything that's emotional is just about how you take it. You sit there and be supportive, or do you mope about and lock yourself away? At that time you've got to be supportive,' he said.
The 27-year-old added that he has remained firmly by Jeremy's side throughout the ordeal. 'I was there for the whole journey, and I'm still here now, so that's the main thing.'
Their Unbreakable Bond
The friendship between Jeremy Clarkson and Kaleb Cooper has emerged as a standout element of Clarkson's Farm, with viewers drawn to their playful exchanges and Kaleb's frequently changing hairstyles. According to Kaleb, their dynamic remains unchanged off-camera. 'As soon as the cameras stop, we're exactly the same, and that's the good thing about it.'
Their on-screen squabbles are genuine, Kaleb confirms. 'Actually the arguments we have on a daily basis, I think even make the camera crew go, 'Here they go again, they're off on this argument!' But the good thing is that if we have an argument one day, the next day we'll have a cup of tea, and it's straight over our heads. I think that's what makes a really good friendship.'
Kaleb confesses he takes pleasure in teasing his employer. 'I actually really enjoy it. I like winding him up! I don't know why, I just like it.' When asked if he knows exactly which buttons to push, he chuckles: 'Every button possible!'
Kaleb's Journey from Farmhand to Star
Growing up in Chipping Norton and entering farming at an early age, Kaleb was already assisting with land management at Diddly Squat before Jeremy purchased the farm. Since rising to prominence on Clarkson's Farm in 2021, he has become a bestselling author, secured his own TV spin-off series, embarked on live tours, and established himself as one of Britain's most beloved television personalities.
Despite his growing fame, Kaleb maintains he never had a grand strategy. 'Weirdly, no! I don't think anyone can plan for that, really. I've done six seasons of Clarkson's Farm, done my own series on Amazon Prime, done four books, and a world live tour, and of course, now I get to star in an advert for Hawkstone that's on TV, which I perform my own stunts to! It's truly amazing. I don't think anyone can plan that!'
Much of that determination stems from lessons learned during his upbringing, along with words of support from Jeremy. 'I think it's any motivational speech from anyone that says, 'Well done,' to you,' he reflects. Remembering his late grandfather's support, he explained: 'From a young age, instead of my gramps saying, 'Well done,' to me, he'd go to Chipping Norton and tell everyone what I was doing. The following day, as I'd walk through that town, everyone would say, 'Well done', not just one person.'
Personal Life and Future Dreams
Beyond the cameras, Kaleb is engaged to his partner Taya and is father to three children: five-year-old Oscar, three-year-old Willa Grace, and ten-month-old Ashton. Regardless of his expanding commitments, he maintains one primary objective. 'My dream is to buy my own farm. That's the goal. That's what I'm working towards. But I live in the Cotswolds and it's very expensive to live in! So I've just got to keep working harder.'
Despite rubbing shoulders with A-listers, Kaleb remains unfazed by celebrity. 'Actually, the good thing is, when I meet celebrities, I don't know who they are. I really struggle with who's who. I don't necessarily go out there and find out the showbiz news in The Mirror to find out!'
And while he has already made his mark in farming, television, books, and live tours, Kaleb has his eye on another career venture. 'I wouldn't mind doing a natural Go Wild animal programme, like David Attenborough in a way.' When asked where he would start his wildlife escapades, he was characteristically enthusiastic. 'I'll start with a fox, and then maybe get to a seal or a shark. Or maybe a stick insect. That's the journey I'll go on!'
