Countryfile's John Craven feared ruining relationship with wife after big career move

John Craven rose to fame on BBC's Newsround (Image: (Image: Getty))

John Craven, the beloved face of Newsround and Countryfile, previously shared insights into his love story with his wife Marilyn during a wider discussion on his 2019 memoir, Headlines And Hedgerows.

The iconic media personality crossed paths with Marilyn during his early days at the BBC in Newcastle upon Tyne, well before the dawn of the '70s. The enduring bond between the pair gave way to a beautiful family that includes daughters Emma and Victoria and five grandchildren.

Reflecting on their romance in a past conversation with the Daily Mail, he recalled the "strong Northern woman" who had captivated his heart during his initial days at Look North. Overwhelmed, he admitted, she was "all I had been looking for".

Fielding queries on maintaining marital harmony amidst the fickle universe of television, he shared: "It helped that she worked in TV. She knew how it was."

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John Craven has become a firm favourite on Countryfile (Image: ITV)

The national treasure further divulged about a fork in the road early in his career path where he feared if Marilyn would be supportive.

He reminisced: "We hadn't been together that long when I was asked to move to Bristol and I wasn't sure if she would say yes, but she did, and it was the best thing that ever happened to me,".

Marilyn has been instrumental in lending him balance throughout his journey. Expressing gratitude for her unwavering support, he stated, "She keeps me grounded. She's been my rock."

Revealing a softer side, John added: "Without being too soppy, she was always there for me, which is the main thing in my business because it can be precarious."

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In the finale, he professed that in the tumultuous world of fame and scrutiny, some assurance goes a long way as, "You're very exposed, and it's always good to be able to get that reassurance."

John, who was dedicated to his career, only ever took a day off from filming Newsround when his first daughter was born.

His second daughter, he quipped, "had the consideration to arrive on a Saturday."

John Craven's memoir, Headlines And Hedgerows, is published by Michael Joseph and can be purchased from various retailers.

Countryfile airs on Sundays on BBC One.

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Countryfile's John Craven feared ruining relationship with wife after big career move

Countryfile's John Craven feared ruining relationship with wife after big career move

Countryfile's John Craven feared ruining relationship with wife after big career move

Countryfile's John Craven feared ruining relationship with wife after big career move

Countryfile's John Craven feared ruining relationship with wife after big career move