TV favourite Ben Shephard has opened up about the reality of married life with his wife of 20 years, Annie Perks — and revealed the simple but thoughtful “agreement” that keeps their household running smoothly.
The 50-year-old This Morning and Tipping Point presenter recently turned heads after recreating his shirtless Men’s Health cover 13 years on, showing off an impressive physique. But behind the abs and TV fame is a man navigating the everyday compromises of family life.
Speaking to Men’s Health, Ben admitted that his new health regime caused friction at home — especially since Annie does most of the cooking. Jokingly, he recalled telling her, “I’ve got to have enough protein,” prompting the couple to come to a mutual understanding.
“We came up with an agreement,” Ben said. “I’d make sure I got the protein I needed during the day, so we could enjoy dinner together without me fussing over the food. I might skip bits I don’t want, but we still share that moment.”
Ben and Annie met while at university and tied the knot in 2004. Now parents to two teenage sons, Sam (19) and Jack (18), the couple has kept much of their relationship private. However, Ben has never been shy about praising his wife for her quiet strength behind the scenes.
In a rare earlier interview, he said: “I’m lucky I do a job I love, but it can be chaotic with long hours and travel. Annie’s always supported me — from day one — and she’s put up with a lot.”
Despite the demands of television and family life, the pair’s bond appears as strong as ever, built on compromise, respect, and shared dinner plates — even if Ben’s got one eye on the protein count.
