Stephen Mulhern articulates fears over his future in TV

From the age of 11, Stephen Mulhern, who’s internet hosting In for a Penny at the moment (Could 3), has been studying and performing magic methods. His dad would train him, however he rapidly surpassed his father’s magical skills.

From Butlin’s to Blue Peter, adopted by Finger Suggestions, The Large Large Expertise Present, the Royal Selection Efficiency in 1997, and naturally the plethora of radio and TV reveals we now know him for, he has loved a marvellous profession, with many extra ups than downs. The end of Dancing On Ice represents nothing more than a professional hiccup, one knowledgeable advised us.

Nevertheless it doubtless comes as a frustration, and should have given him pause for thought. How does Stephen really feel about the way forward for his profession in TV? Is he acutely aware of the stiff competitors throughout the business?

Stephen Mulhern articulates fears for TV future, says there’s at all times somebody to take his place

His background, or fairly his dad’s background, was in market buying and selling. Not the flamboyant stuff within the Metropolis of London: he was a flycatcher on Petticoat Lane.

If that doesn’t paint a very vivid image, Stephen likened his dad – who died last year – to the character of Del Boy in Solely Fools and Horses.

He and his brothers would look out for the police whereas their dad would flog slice-and-dice vegetable choppers and novelty toys to the nice individuals of East London.

It taught him a lesson about grafting. He solely buys what he can afford, and he appreciates that if he stops doing what he’s doing, another person will take his place. To that finish, he reins it in on a Friday evening.

“London is an thrilling metropolis, however I’m not one for going out on the razzle,” he advised The Times in Could final yr. “My very best Friday evening is cheese on toast and a little bit of telly. I begin with previous episodes of Decide Judy. I’m in mattress by 10.30pm, listening to classic Steve Penk wind-ups on my headphones.

“Does it sound boring? I favor to see it as ensuring I do a superb job. That’s how I used to be introduced up. If Dad wasn’t on the high of his recreation in the marketplace, he didn’t promote something and the payments didn’t receives a commission. If I’m not on the high of my recreation, there’s a thousand individuals on the market able to take my place.”

Stephen’s work diary for 2025

Following ITV’s decision to axe Dancing On Ice, Stephen Mulhern’s skilled calendar might need appeared just a little sparse.

Not so. He still has Deal or No Deal, which he has offered since 2023. Catchphrase can also be ongoing.

He’s additionally launching a model new ITV journey present referred to as Unintentional Vacationer later this yr. In the meantime, a You Wager! revival additionally seems to be on the playing cards, in addition to a reside tour of the rebooted recreation present.

So, no relaxation for the depraved. Stephen is a great distance away from hanging up his card deck. The legions lining as much as “take his place” will simply have to attend.

Catch Stephen on In For A Penny at the moment (Could 3) at 4pm on ITV1.

Learn extra: Holly Willoughby ‘snubs Phillip Schofield’ after leaving Dancing On Ice as TV show axed