One of the most familiar faces in British sports broadcasting, Kelly Cates, is set to return to our screens this Saturday for the FA Cup third-round tie between Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa. The 50-year-old presenter, a stalwart of Sky Sports, BBC Sport, and BBC Radio 5 Live, has cemented her place in the industry, now sharing hosting duties on Match of the Day alongside Gabby Logan and Mark Chapman.
Kelly Cates' Career and Multi-Million Pound Net Worth
With a media career spanning decades, Kelly Cates has built an impressive professional portfolio and substantial wealth. It is estimated that her net worth stands at approximately £7.9 million. This fortune has been accrued through her high-profile presenting roles on major football broadcasts, radio shows, and television assignments.
Beginning with Sky Sports News and BBC Radio 5 Live, she evolved into a regular and respected voice on live Premier League and EFL coverage. Her authoritative yet approachable style and strong rapport with pundits have made her a favourite among viewers.
Football Royalty: Daughter of Sir Kenny Dalglish
Away from the studio, Cates comes from genuine footballing aristocracy. She is the daughter of Liverpool legend Sir Kenny Dalglish, affectionately known as 'King Kenny'. Her father enjoyed a phenomenal playing career at Anfield, scoring 170 goals in 511 appearances and winning six First Division titles, among other honours.
He also found success as a manager, notably winning the Premier League with Blackburn Rovers in 1995. Cates has spoken about the unique perspective of growing up as a manager's daughter, revealing her father actively discouraged her from socialising with players during his tenure.
"When I was the manager's daughter, I was not encouraged to hang around footballers; quite the opposite," she recalled. "It was, 'You come into the office, you stand with us and stay clear of everybody'." Her sister, Lynsey, is married to former Welsh rugby fly-half Nicky Robinson.
Life After Divorce and Navigating the Dating World
On a personal level, Cates' life has seen significant change in recent years. She was married to television producer Tom Cates for nearly 14 years before the couple separated in 2021. They share two daughters together, and Cates has been open about balancing motherhood with the demands of a high-pressure broadcasting career.
More recently, she has candidly discussed the prospect of re-entering the dating scene, admitting to feelings of apprehension. Speaking on Gabby Logan's Mid Point podcast, Cates confessed to being "nervous" and uncertain about romance.
"I don't have a picture in my head of why a middle-aged, slightly overweight mother of two could possibly be attractive. I can't get my head round that," she said. "The thought of going on a date... I would be so resentful of them taking up my time."
Despite these personal challenges, Kelly Cates continues to thrive professionally, representing a powerful and relatable voice in sports media, with her FA Cup presentation this weekend marking another highlight in her illustrious career.
