Chris Tarrant facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Chris Tarrant
|
|
|---|---|
Tarrant doing stand-up comedy in 2009
|
|
| Born |
Christopher John Tarrant
10 October 1946 Reading, Berkshire, England, UK
|
| Education | King's School, Worcester |
| Alma mater | University of Birmingham |
| Occupation |
|
| Years active | 1972–2024 |
| Known for | Tiswas Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? Chris Tarrant: Extreme Railways |
| Spouse(s) |
|
| Partner(s) | Jane Bird (2008–present) |
| Children | 4, including Toby |
Christopher John Tarrant (born 10 October 1946) is a well-known English broadcaster and television personality. He is famous for hosting the children's TV show Tiswas from 1974 to 1981. He also presented the popular game show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? from its start in 1998 until 2014. Chris Tarrant retired from television in December 2024 after a long career.
Contents
Early life and start in TV
Chris Tarrant was born in Reading, Berkshire, England, on 10 October 1946. He went to The King's School, Worcester and later studied English at the University of Birmingham. After finishing university in 1967, he worked as a schoolteacher for a short time.
In 1972, Chris Tarrant began his television career at ATV. He started as a newsreader on a show called ATV Today. This program covered current events in the Midlands area of England.
Famous TV shows
Tiswas and O.T.T.
Chris Tarrant became very popular as a co-presenter on Tiswas. This was a children's television show that aired on Saturday mornings from 1974 to 1981. He worked alongside Sally James, Lenny Henry, and Bob Carolgees. The show was known for its fun and sometimes messy segments.
In 1982, Tarrant and some of his Tiswas co-stars launched a late-night show called O.T.T. (which stood for "Over the Top"). It was aimed at adults and, although it didn't last long, it was quite popular.
Capital Radio days
From 1984 to 2004, Chris Tarrant was a radio host at Capital Radio. He presented the popular early-morning show called Capital Breakfast. This show was a big hit and helped Capital Radio gain many listeners in London. He spent 20 years at the station before leaving in 2004.
Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?
Chris Tarrant started hosting the TV quiz show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? in 1998. This show became a huge success and its format was sold to over 100 other countries. Tarrant became famous for his catchphrases like "Is that your final answer?"
He hosted the show for 15 years, from 1998 to 2014. During this time, he presented 592 episodes. Five contestants managed to win the top prize of £1 million. One contestant's win was later questioned, leading to a famous case. Chris Tarrant announced in October 2013 that he would be leaving the show. This led ITV to end the original series. In 2018, the show returned with a new host, but Chris Tarrant chose not to watch it.
Other exciting projects
Chris Tarrant has hosted many other television shows. These include Tarrant on TV, which showed funny and unusual TV clips from around the world. He also hosted Tarrant Lets the Kids Loose, where young children got to try out adult jobs.
He also presented game shows like It's Not What You Know and The Colour of Money. In 2012, Tarrant started a travel documentary series called Chris Tarrant: Extreme Railways. In this series, he traveled on amazing train journeys in places like Australia, India, and Africa.
In 2004, Chris Tarrant was given an OBE award. This was for his important charity work, especially helping children in need. In December 2024, after more than 50 years in television, Chris Tarrant announced his retirement. He said the COVID-19 pandemic made him think about how he wanted to spend his time.
Personal life
Chris Tarrant has four children. He was married to Sheila Robertson and later to Ingrid Dupre-Walsh. Since 2008, he has been in a long-term relationship with Jane Bird.
Chris Tarrant is a big fan of the rock band Status Quo. He also supports the football team Reading F.C..
Charity work
Chris Tarrant is very involved in charity work. He is an ambassador for Centrepoint, a charity that helps young homeless people. He is also a patron for West Heath School, which supports disadvantaged children. He helps Milly's Fund, a charity set up to remember Amanda Dowler, and Swings & Smiles, which helps children with special needs.
He is also a patron of the Trooper Potts VC Memorial Trust in Reading and Berkshire Vision, a charity for people with visual impairments. In 2024, he helped promote the National Lottery's 'People's Portraits' series, which featured Ukrainian refugees.
Awards and recognition
Chris Tarrant has received several awards for his work. In 2000, he won the Broadcasting Press Guild Award for Best Performer for Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?. He also received a Special Recognition Award at the National Television Awards in the same year.
In 2006, he was given a Lifetime Achievement award at the British Comedy Awards. In 2010, Chris Tarrant was honored with a star on Birmingham's Walk of Stars. He was also made an honorary citizen of Birmingham. He said he was very proud, as his career started in Birmingham with ATV and Tiswas.
Images for kids
-
Tarrant's star on Broad Street, awarded to him in 2010
See also
In Spanish: Chris Tarrant para niños
