British television just got a little brighter—The Chase presenter, beloved actor, singer, and all-around entertainer Bradley Walsh, 64, has officially joined the Grandparents’ Club. With a baby boy now added to the family tree, the multitalented star is basking in a new chapter of joy, legacy, and deepened love.
“I am a grandfather!” he recently shared with heartfelt pride. “My daughter and her husband Tom have had a baby boy who is coming up for five months old.” It’s a moment that has fans beaming along with him—and it’s easy to see why. For all his fame, Bradley’s greatest role might just be the one he now takes on behind the scenes: doting granddad.
The Many Faces of Bradley Walsh
For those somehow unfamiliar with his long and varied career, Bradley Walsh is nothing short of a national treasure. Born in Hertfordshire in 1960, his path to stardom has been as diverse as it is impressive. A former professional footballer for Brentford FC, he traded in his boots for the stage after an ankle injury cut short his sporting career. From there, he never looked back.
Walsh became a household name through acting roles on shows like Coronation Street, where he played smooth-talking factory boss Danny Baldwin, and in Doctor Who, where he portrayed the lovable Graham O’Brien. As a host, he’s best known for steering The Chase with charm and cheeky wit—a role he’s made entirely his own since 2009.
And then there’s the music. Few game show hosts can say they’ve released two chart-topping albums, but Bradley can. His 2016 debut Chasing Dreams and follow-up When You’re Smiling both climbed the UK Albums Chart, showcasing a surprisingly silky voice honed through years of musical theatre and stage experience.
But while he might be a triple threat in the public eye—actor, presenter, and singer—Bradley’s private life paints a quieter, richer picture of warmth, family, and heartfelt connection.
Meet the Walsh Family: A Circle of Love
Bradley has long made it clear that family is the heart of everything. Married to his wife Donna Derby since 1997, their relationship has endured fame, busy schedules, and the ups and downs of life in the spotlight.
Donna is a successful choreographer in her own right, currently working with Miss World, and she’s no stranger to showbiz herself—having danced on The Kenny Everett Television Show and appeared in the music video for Robert Palmer’s Simply Irresistible. Behind the scenes, she’s also been a guiding force in Bradley’s career, helping him navigate fame with grace and a grounded perspective.
Together, they share a son, Barney Walsh, who’s quickly becoming a fan favorite himself.
Barney and Bradley: The Ultimate Father-Son Duo
If you’ve watched Bradley Walsh & Son: Breaking Dad, you’ll know that the bond between Bradley and Barney goes far beyond family ties—it’s built on deep mutual respect, endless laughter, and shared adventure.
The show follows the pair as they travel the world, undertaking activities that push them far outside their comfort zones—from astronaut training to bull-riding. Through each twist and turn, their natural chemistry and genuine affection for one another have captivated viewers.
“Working with my dad is amazing,” Barney has said. “We’ve always been close, but the show gave us even more time to connect.”
And fans love watching it unfold. In a television landscape often filled with competition and conflict, their dynamic is refreshing—a celebration of fatherhood and friendship.
Introducing Hayley: The Daughter Who Made Bradley a Grandfather
Lesser known to the public eye, but equally cherished, is Bradley’s daughter Hayley, born in 1982 from a previous relationship with Debby Parker. A qualified reflexologist, Hayley lives in Hertfordshire with her husband Tom, and the couple just made Bradley’s year by welcoming a beautiful baby boy into the world.
“Hayley’s always been a wonderful person,” friends of the family say. “She’s thoughtful, kind, and a brilliant mum already.”
Despite being more private than her TV-famous father and brother, Hayley is incredibly close with both. Her new son has brought the entire family even closer, with Bradley now enjoying a role that allows him to step back, observe, and simply be there.
Three Generations of Walsh
Bradley has shared a touching photo of three generations of Walsh men—himself, Barney, and his own father Daniel Walsh—with his usual dash of humor: “You’ve all heard of The Good, The Bad and The Ugly… Here’s The Kid, The Clown and The Cockney!”
It’s in moments like these—simple, heartfelt, laced with laughter—that fans are reminded why Bradley is so beloved. He’s relatable. Human. Loving.
Now, with his grandson in his arms and his family around him, Bradley’s latest chapter isn’t about TV ratings or album sales. It’s about legacy. About love that stretches across generations.
What’s Next for Granddad Bradley?
While he continues his work on The Chase and other projects, don’t expect Bradley to slow down too much. But don’t be surprised if he’s seen spending more time with his grandson, either.
“I’m just so proud,” he’s said. “Life moves quickly, and moments like this… they matter. Being a grandfather is a gift.”
And if the past few decades have taught us anything, it’s that Bradley Walsh isn’t just good at seizing opportunities—he’s even better at appreciating the ones money and fame can’t buy.