This Morning star Ben Shephard: "I am happy to take pride in how I look"

This article first appeared in Radio Times magazine.

What’s the view from your sofa?

We have a pretty average-sized TV – I had to leave my massive 75in telly behind when we moved house as we didn’t have space for it. That was one of the most heartbreaking things I’ve ever had to do.

What have you enjoyed watching recently?

Landman is incredible. Normally I’ve got four or five episodes waiting so I can watch a few at a time, but I just couldn’t stop myself. I’ve absolutely fallen in love with the work of Taylor Sheridan. From Landman to Yellowstone to Mayor of Kingstown, there is nothing he’s doing that isn’t extraordinary.

Who controls the remote at home?

I like to have it close at hand at all times. My boys [20-year-old Sam and 19-year-old Jack] tend to watch their iPads, as does my wife [Annie]. She likes cosy crime shows like Poirot, but I need the big cinematic experience.

What was your first job on TV?

Andi Peters gave me my first job in telly on T4, but I also screen-tested alongside Fearne Cotton for GMTV’s kids’ weekend show, Diggit. She was only 16 and I was 21. I didn’t get it, but we became mates and still talk about how hilarious that was.

Which TV presenters do you admire?

I loved Terry Wogan for his eloquence. Chris Evans is unquestionably one of my broadcasting idols: I just love his energy, enthusiasm and passion. In sport, it has to be Jeff Stelling, and Davina McCall just makes me smile and is incredible at what she does.

What makes a good presenter?

Someone who’s authentic and is no different off screen as on. If you’re not being your true self, I think people can tell. Also, someone who’s curious and constantly looking to improve.

What’s been the biggest highlight of your presenting career so far?

Being given the responsibility to front a news programme during important historical moments, like an election or the Queen’s funeral. Fortunately, I got to do it alongside the best in the business with Susanna Reid – we had such implicit trust in one another.

Talking of pinnacles, what’s the premise of your new show The Summit?

It’s set against the jaw-dropping backdrop of the Southern Alps in New Zealand, where 14 ordinary people try to climb a mountain in just 14 days. Whoever reaches the summit gets a share of £200,000.

You’ve run 14 marathons and climbed Kilimanjaro. How do you think you’d do as a contestant?

I’d have loved the physical challenge, but I would have been hopeless at the strategy. I’d have been too keen to please everybody. They’d have me wrapped around their finger in moments.

How have your views of fitness changed compared to when you were younger?

I’ve always loved keeping fit, but as I got into my 40s [Shephard is 51 now], things started breaking down a bit and my approach to health and wellness changed. I became aware of the importance of looking after myself, so that I can be fit into my 70s and 80s.

I enjoyed the most amazing trip to Australia on the British and Irish Lions tour with my parents, who are both in their 80s. I want to do that with my boys and, if I’m lucky, with my grandkids, too.

Do you think there’s more pressure on men than there used to be to look good on screen?

There is a lot more focus on how we look and what we’re wearing, which has always been something my female colleagues have had to deal with, but TV is visual and I am happy to take pride in how I look.

The latest issue of Radio Times is out now – subscribe here.

Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.