Ant Anstead facts for kids

Anthony Richard "Ant" Anstead (born March 28, 1979) is a British TV presenter, car builder, and designer. He is famous for his love of cars and for hosting shows like For the Love of Cars and Wheeler Dealers. Ant is known for building and restoring amazing cars. From 2017 to 2021, he was a co-host on Wheeler Dealers in the United States.

Growing Up

Ant Anstead was born in Plymouth, England. He lived in Ely until he was 10. Then he moved to Hertfordshire with his family. He went to Richard Hale School and Haileybury School. When he was just sixteen, Ant built his first kit car. He sold it for a profit right away! This started his passion for cars. He then bought an MG car, and his love for vehicles grew even more.

Ant's Early Jobs

Ant joined the police force in 1999. He worked as a Police Constable in different towns. He later became part of a special team. During his time as a police officer, Ant was recognized for his bravery more than once.

In 2005, Ant left the police force. He wanted to focus on building cars. He started his own business. He would build and restore cars for people. He also created special, one-of-a-kind vehicles.

Ant also played semi-professional football for over 15 years. He played more than 700 matches. He even switched from being a goalkeeper to a striker! He is the only player to win league promotions in both positions.

Television Career

Ant Anstead started his own TV company in 2014. He produced his first show called The World’s Most Expensive Cars.

Later in 2014, he was asked to host a new car show. This show was for Channel 4 and featured actor Philip Glenister. Since then, Ant has hosted many TV shows. In 2015, he hosted BBC Two's live show Building Cars Live. He worked alongside James May and Kate Humble.

Ant also hosts live events at car shows in the UK. He gives talks at schools and for charities.

In his 2019 TV show Ant Anstead Master Mechanic, Ant built a special car. He used different parts to create a tribute to the Alfa Romeo 158. On the show, Ant worked with many car experts.

Ant is also part of the World's Greatest Cars series. This show features car experts. They talk about the five greatest sports cars ever made. They look at their cool designs and amazing performance.

Wheeler Dealers

In 2017, Ant was offered a big opportunity. He was asked to move to the United States. He would replace his friend Edd China as co-host of Wheeler Dealers. Edd had decided to return to the UK. Ant signed a five-year contract for the show.

Three years later, the show's production moved back to the UK. Ant did not move with the show. He has a young son, Hudson, who lives in the US. Hudson is settled there with his mom, Christina Hall. Ant shares custody of Hudson.

Ant's Family Life

Ant Anstead has a daughter named Amelie and a son named Archie. They are from his first marriage. That marriage ended in 2017.

He later married American TV personality Christina Haack in 2018. Their son, Hudson, was born in 2019. The couple separated in 2020 and later divorced.

In 2021, Ant started a relationship with American actress Renée Zellweger. They had worked together on a TV series.

Ant is also a supporter of Harrison's Fund. This charity helps research a condition called Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

Filmography

Television