Bargain Hunt contestant pretends to strangle Charles Hanson
Bargain Hunt icon Jonathan Pratt urged fans to “just read the news” when it comes to the allegations about his co-stars.
The antiques industry and BBC presenters in particular have been riddled with controversy in recent years, with Bargain Hunt star Charles Hanson set to stand trial in February 2025, facing charges of actual bodily harm, assault, and engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour against his wife.
The antique expert, who has also appeared on shows like Flog It and Antiques Road Trip, was charged when police were called to a Derbyshire address in June 2023. He has denied all charges, issuing a not guilty plea.
He’s not the only one making headlines at the moment, as Bargain Hunt antique expert John Cameron had his auction house mired in controversy when it was accused of selling an actress’s possessions without her consent.
Sally Thomsett, who found fame in The Railway Children, accused Nesbits Antiques Auctions of selling her belongings, though the house said it “entirely refuted” all claims, arguing they actually belonged to an ex-husband.
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Now Jonathan has opened up about the controversy – and his co-stars’ reputations – in an interview with GB News, telling the publication: “The auction industry is a very small industry […] We do keep up and there is some rivalry.
“Obviously, some people have better reputations in the trade than others and I shouldn't really make any comment on that whatsoever but you only have to read the news to see what people are up to and what's going on."
He couldn’t resist another dig at his colleagues, adding: “They’re a really good, fun bunch… mostly are, anyway.” He did, however, have some words of praise for Phil Serrell, Anita Manning and the BBC crew behind the scenes.
It comes after the news of Jonathan’s new career change, as he’s set to star in a production of Kiss Me Kate, performing songs by Cole Porter, at the Theatre Royal Winchester this week.
Announcing the news via Instagram, Jonathan penned: “It’s official, I have been bitten by the bug, but who doesn’t love Cole Porter. My next performance is on the 6th-9th of November at the Theatre Royal Winchester.
“This time it’s a small part, nonetheless I seem to have to be at rather a lot of rehearsals!”
