Sara Cox and Ben Shepherd are two of the most beloved names in British television. From hosting radio shows to appearing on iconic morning talk shows, both have built impressive careers in the entertainment industry. But despite their high profiles, there are still many surprising facts about their personal lives and careers that even their biggest fans may not know. In this article, we’re diving deep into the lives of these two TV stars, revealing seven lesser-known facts about Sara Cox and Ben Shepherd that will leave you amazed.
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1. Sara Cox Was a Radio Star Before TV Fame
While most fans know Sara Cox from her work on BBC Radio 2 and as a host on The Great Pottery Throw Down, many might not realize that she got her start in radio much earlier in her career. Before becoming a household name in television, Sara worked as a presenter on BBC Radio 1 in the early 2000s. Her infectious energy and distinctive voice made her a natural fit for radio, and it wasn’t long before she transitioned into television presenting.
Sara’s ability to engage audiences with her lively personality helped her carve a niche in both the radio and television worlds, setting the stage for a long and successful career.
2. Ben Shepherd Has a Secret Passion for Martial Arts
Ben Shepherd may be known for his calm and approachable persona as a presenter on Good Morning Britain, but behind the scenes, he’s a bit of a martial arts enthusiast. The presenter has spoken openly about his love for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a sport he’s been practicing for several years. Ben has mentioned that he finds the discipline and focus required for martial arts to be a great balance to his fast-paced career in television.
It’s not just a hobby for Ben; he has even competed in amateur Jiu-Jitsu competitions. Fans are often shocked when they hear about his martial arts background, as it’s far from the image of the charming TV host they’re used to seeing on screen.
3. Sara Cox Once Appeared in a Music Video
Sara Cox isn’t just a radio and TV presenter; she also has some experience in the music world. In the late 90s, she appeared in the music video for the song “Spaceman” by the British alternative rock band Babylon Zoo. At the time, Sara was a popular figure in the music scene, often seen at gigs and events. Her cameo in the video is one of those fun little-known facts that many of her fans have forgotten about.
Her time spent in the music world helped to shape her broader understanding of entertainment, which would later influence her hosting style on TV and radio.
4. Ben Shepherd’s Early Career Was in Journalism
Before Ben Shepherd became a familiar face on morning TV, he worked as a journalist. In fact, Ben’s early career began in local news, where he gained valuable experience that would later serve him well in broadcasting. He started as a reporter for Anglia Television before moving to ITV News as a presenter. His background in journalism gave him an edge in understanding the dynamics of news delivery and presenting, helping him transition smoothly into his hosting roles on shows like Good Morning Britain and Tipping Point.
Fans of Ben may be surprised to learn that his presenting skills come from a deep understanding of the news industry, not just natural charisma.
5. Sara Cox Is a Huge Animal Lover
Sara Cox’s love for animals is no secret to her fans. In fact, she’s often shared photos and stories about her pets on social media. What many may not know, however, is that Sara has a particular fondness for dogs. Over the years, she has owned several dogs, and she is a vocal advocate for animal welfare. In 2016, she even became a patron for the Dogs Trust, a charity that works to rescue and rehome abandoned dogs.
Sara’s commitment to animals extends beyond just pet ownership; she’s an advocate for responsible pet care and frequently uses her platform to raise awareness about animal adoption.
6. Ben Shepherd Has a Close Friendship with Piers Morgan
Despite their differing presenting styles, Ben Shepherd and Piers Morgan share a close friendship that goes back several years. The two have appeared together on Good Morning Britain, and their rapport is evident whenever they share the screen. Ben has often spoken about how Piers has been a mentor to him, offering advice on presenting and navigating the world of television broadcasting.
Though their personalities may differ—Ben’s calm demeanor versus Piers’ more fiery personality—their friendship and professional relationship are an interesting dynamic on morning TV. Fans love watching the banter between them when they’re on screen together, often sparking speculation about their behind-the-scenes camaraderie.
7. Sara Cox Almost Had a Career in Acting
Before she found her passion for radio and television presenting, Sara Cox had dreams of becoming an actress. In her younger years, she took drama classes and auditioned for roles, but it was her natural charisma and ability to connect with audiences that eventually led her to broadcasting. Sara has admitted that while she enjoyed acting, she found her true calling in hosting, where her personality could shine even brighter.
This fascinating tidbit shows that Sara’s path to success was not a straightforward one, but her willingness to explore different avenues in the entertainment industry ultimately paid off.
Conclusion:
Sara Cox and Ben Shepherd continue to captivate audiences with their charisma, talent, and multifaceted careers. Whether it’s their surprising hobbies, unexpected pasts, or their incredible contributions to television, these two stars are full of surprises.
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FAQs About Sara Cox and Ben Shepherd
1. How did Sara Cox become famous?
Sara Cox rose to fame as a radio presenter on BBC Radio 1 in the early 2000s, before transitioning to television hosting. She became well-known for her energetic personality and unique style, which made her a fan favorite on shows like The Great Pottery Throw Down.
2. What is Ben Shepherd’s most famous TV show?
Ben Shepherd is best known for his role as a presenter on Good Morning Britain and as the host of the popular game show Tipping Point.
3. Are Sara Cox and Ben Shepherd friends?
Yes, both Sara Cox and Ben Shepherd have worked together on several projects, and they share a mutual respect for each other’s careers. While they may not be best friends, their professional relationship has been positive and supportive.
4. What charity work does Sara Cox do?
Sara Cox is a patron for the Dogs Trust and is actively involved in promoting animal welfare. She is an advocate for responsible pet ownership and animal adoption.
5. What other shows has Ben Shepherd hosted?
In addition to Good Morning Britain and Tipping Point, Ben Shepherd has hosted a variety of game shows, including The Golden Shot and Who Dares Wins, showcasing his versatility as a presenter.