Countryfile’s Adam Henson, 58, has been a staple on the show since 2001, giving viewers a glimpse into life on his Farm Park in the Cotswolds. Adam secured his role on the show partly thanks to his famous father Joe Henson, who was a pioneer in his own right, having hosted shows like Animal Magic and In The Country nearly four decades ago.
Adam spoke fondly of his dad, also a farmer, describing him as a “TV natural” and a “fantastic storyteller.” The two briefly worked together on Countryfile years after Adam landed the gig, with Adam noting that “the producers and directors loved him.” The farming expert said: “He was also my biggest supporter and always rang after the programme to congratulate me or offer gentle pointers.”
Countryfile presenter Adam Henson pictured with his wife Charlotte Henson
(Image: (Image: Getty))
Joseph Leslie “Joe” Henson, MBE, a farmer who founded the Rare Breeds Survival Trust, sadly passed away in 2015 at the age of 82 after a battle with cancer, reports the Express.
Reflecting on the heartbreaking loss of his father the following year, Adam said: “It’s devastating for anybody to lose a parent, but my relationship with Dad was particularly close. Right from my first days, he was my rock, my mentor, my hero. It’s no exaggeration to say he taught me virtually all I know about farming and television.”
Adam Henson also has a famous lineage that he only recently discovered. His grandfather was none other than British actor and comedian Leslie Henson. Adam’s father Joe was kept a secret as a baby due to a scandal that could have ruined Leslie’s career, and he revealed this in a letter towards the end of his life.
British actor and comedian Leslie Henson
(Image: (Image: GETTY))
Speaking to The Guardian about his famous relative, Adam said: “Leslie was married to another actress when Dad was born and the scandal could have ruined his career. So it was agreed to keep the baby a secret, although Leslie always provided for Billie [Joe’s mum] and dad.” Adam described Leslie as being like a favourite uncle who would come and go, leaving his dad to be raised by a single mum. However, once Leslie’s wife agreed to a divorce, he married Billie and finally told Adam’s dad that he was his father.
Adam shared: “To conceal the illegitimacy, dad wasn’t allowed to attend the wedding and was sent away to boarding school. Leslie could have been a much better father in my eyes, but dad adored him.”
Leslie Henson had a successful career, performing in the West End role in Nicely, Thanks! at the Royal Strand Theatre. He later became a popular music hall comedian and enjoyed a long-lasting career on the stage. He married his third wife Harriet “Billie” Dell in 1944 and they remained together until his death in 1957.
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