Bradley Walsh, beloved TV presenter, actor, and comedian, has added another heartwarming title to his already impressive list of achievements—grandfather. At 61 years old, the star of The Chase and The Larkins quietly stepped into this new chapter of his life, as his daughter Hayley Walsh, 39, recently welcomed her first child, a baby boy.
Though the news only became public months later, the proud grandfather revealed that his grandson is already nearly five months old. The announcement marked a personal milestone for Walsh, whose career has spanned decades in both entertainment and broadcasting.
A Grandfather for the First Time
Bradley shared the joyous news in a recent interview, explaining that Hayley, his daughter from a previous relationship, and her husband Tom had become first-time parents earlier this year. “I am a grandfather!” he said with unmistakable excitement. “My daughter and her husband Tom have had a baby boy, who is coming up for five months old.”
Reflecting on the timing, he noted the challenges many families have faced due to restrictions over the past few years. “It’s been tricky, as during lockdown no one could get to see their grandchildren,” he said. “Thank God for FaceTime – it has kept people in touch.”
This new role seems to suit Bradley perfectly. Known for his quick wit and warmth on screen, it’s easy to imagine him slipping seamlessly into the part of doting grandfather. In fact, he’s already planning how to make the most of it.
A Playful Granddad With a Sense of Humor
In a lighthearted moment during his interview with Saga Magazine, Bradley shared his tongue-in-cheek strategy for being a “brilliant grandfather.” He joked, “When the baby grows into a toddler, make sure you spend plenty of time with them, feeding them ice cream and Coca-Cola, and then give them back at just the right time and say to your children, ‘There you are, that’s what you were like.’”
The remark reflects the blend of humor and sentiment that fans have come to associate with Bradley. And while he may be looking forward to the fun side of grandparenting, it’s clear that family plays a deeply important role in his life.
Family Life and Milestones
Bradley has been married to choreographer and former dancer Donna Derby since 1997. Together, they share a son, Barney Walsh, who has also stepped into the entertainment world. The father-son duo is well-known to viewers of Bradley Walsh & Son: Breaking Dad, an ITV travel show that follows their comedic and heartfelt adventures across the globe.
With their silver wedding anniversary approaching next year, Bradley revealed plans for a big celebration. “We’ll celebrate big time. I don’t know what we’ll do yet,” he said. “My wife is an amazing person. She provides love and stability in my life.”
He continued with heartfelt praise, adding, “You need someone you gravitate towards, no matter where you go, and they become the center of your universe. Our time at home is fantastic and she really makes me laugh as well. So, it’s a great thing if you have got that in your life.”
Staying Busy on Screen
Even as he embraces his new role as a grandparent, Bradley shows no signs of slowing down. A staple of British television, he remains one of the country’s most in-demand personalities.
Bradley continues to host The Chase, one of the UK’s most popular quiz shows, as well as its spinoffs, Beat the Chasers and Blankety Blank. In addition to presenting, he has maintained a steady presence as an actor, with notable roles such as Graham O’Brien in Doctor Who and, more recently, as Pop Larkin in ITV’s The Larkins.
His ability to transition seamlessly between genres—be it game show host, dramatic actor, or comedic performer—has solidified his place in the hearts of viewers across generations.
Yet, despite his varied success, Bradley admits that even he worries about overexposure. In a candid moment during an interview with Radio Times, he said, “You’ve got to be very careful of overkill. People can get very bored very quickly.”
Still, he felt drawn to his role in The Larkins, especially given the climate of recent years. “I thought it was needed,” he explained. “Something to take the edge off all the doom and gloom.”
A New Legacy
As Bradley steps into grandfatherhood, it’s clear that his legacy is evolving—not just as a cherished figure in entertainment, but as a devoted family man. With a successful marriage of nearly three decades, a close relationship with his children, and now a new grandchild to dote on, Bradley’s personal life is as full and rewarding as his professional one.
For fans who have watched him quiz contestants on The Chase, make audiences laugh in sitcoms, or tear up alongside his son in travel adventures, this new chapter only adds depth to a man already beloved for his authenticity and warmth.
Bradley Walsh, the man who’s made us laugh, cheer, and sometimes cry on screen, now has a new reason to smile—and it’s only five months old.
