Ant Anstead: A Multi-Talented TV Presenter and Car Enthusiast
Ant Anstead is a name that resonates with car enthusiasts and television viewers alike. Born Anthony Richard Anstead on March 28, 1979, in Plymouth, Devon, England, he has carved a unique path for himself, showcasing his talents as a television presenter, car builder, designer, artist, author, and producer. With a net worth of $5 million, Anstead has established himself as a prominent figure in the automotive industry and beyond.
Anstead’s television career took off when he co-presented the Channel 4 automotive series “For the Love of Cars” from 2014 to 2015, alongside actor Philip Glenister. The show captivated audiences with its exploration of classic cars, their history, and their restoration. Anstead’s expertise and on-screen charisma shone through, cementing his reputation as a knowledgeable and engaging presenter.
In 2017, Anstead took on a new role as the co-host of the popular British TV show “Wheeler Dealers,” partnering with Mike Brewer. This long-running series showcases the buying, restoring, and selling of used cars, and Anstead’s mechanical skills and passion for automotive craftsmanship made him a perfect fit for the show.
Building on his success, Anstead went on to host his own Discovery+ series called “Celebrity IOU: Joyride” in 2021. The show features celebrities such as Renée Zellweger, Mary J. Blige, Octavia Spencer, and James Marsden expressing their gratitude by helping to create customized automotive masterpieces for the people who have made a difference in their lives. This series further demonstrated Anstead’s ability to connect with viewers and his passion for creating unique and meaningful experiences.
Beyond his television work, Anstead has delved into various other endeavors. In 2019, he starred in the Motor Trend series “Ant Anstead Master Mechanic,” where he paid tribute to the legendary 1930s Alfa Romeo 158 Grand Prix race car by building his own version from scratch. This project showcased Anstead’s meticulous attention to detail and his dedication to preserving automotive history.
Anstead’s passion for cars extends beyond television. He is the co-founder of Radford Motors, a global luxury coachbuilding brand with British heritage. Through Radford Motors, Anstead combines his expertise in car building and design to create exquisite and personalized vehicles that embody elegance, performance, and craftsmanship.
Before embarking on his television career, Anstead pursued a different path as a Police Constable and member of the Tactical Firearms Team in the Hertfordshire Constabulary. His six years in law enforcement provided him with valuable experiences and shaped his perspective on life. Anstead faced challenging situations, received commendations for acts of bravery, and developed a deep appreciation for the capabilities and complexities of human nature.
Anstead’s diverse interests are not limited to cars and television. In 2018, he published two books: “Cops and Robbers: The Story of the British Police Car” and “Petrol Head Parenting: The Essential Guide to Diagnosing and Nurturing a Petrol Head.” These publications reflect his passion for sharing knowledge and experiences with others, offering insights into the world of police cars and providing guidance for parents who want to nurture a love for automobiles in their children.
On a personal note, Anstead’s life has seen its share of ups and downs. He was previously married to Louise Herbert, with whom he shares two children, Archie and Amelie. After their divorce in 2017, Anstead entered a high-profile relationship with television personality Christina Haack (formerly Anstead). The couple married in 2018 and had a son named Hudson before their divorce in 2021. Ant filed for full custody of Hudson, leading to a custody agreement that grants joint legal and joint physical custody. In 2021, Anstead began a relationship with Oscar-winning actress Renée Zellweger, whom he met on the set of “Celebrity IOU: Joyride.”
In addition to his professional and personal pursuits, Anstead is also deeply committed to charitable causes. He became a patron of Harrison’s Fund, a charity dedicated to finding a cure for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, and actively supports the organization’s mission to raise funds for research.
Anstead’s journey has taken him from the police force to the world of cars and television, where he has made a name for himself as a versatile and talented individual. With his ongoing contributions to the automotive industry, his captivating television presence, and his commitment to philanthropy, Ant Anstead continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.