Josie Gibson has faced the camera in Big Brother and conquered her fears in the I'm A Celebrity jungle, but she finds true contentment hosting "Josie's Taste Of The West Country." As a proud Somerset native, Josie relishes in exploring regional delicacies while staying close to her son, Reggie James.
Despite being a regular co-host on ITV's "This Morning," Josie is happiest tending to her countryside home. "I only get to be a mum once, and you never get that time back," Josie shares. "I need to be down this neck of the woods. I love the West Country. That's where I feel myself and where I can grow."
"I am just like any other mum out there. It's all a juggle and it's all a learning curve, and I am just trying to hold it together," Josie admits candidly.
Even from the cozy comfort of the countryside, Josie's son Reggie harbors aspirations of stardom. "I took him on the This Morning sofa and pretended we were interviewing someone famous," Josie laughs. "Now he wants to be a famous actor."
Josie has gracefully navigated the public eye for over 15 years, brushing off social media negativity with humor. "I love a bit of hate on social media," she shrugs. "If you're not getting hated by somebody, you're doing something wrong!"
Looking up to Miriam Margolyes, Josie eagerly anticipates the day she can be just as outspoken. "I cannot wait to be like Miriam Margolyes," she says. "The older you get, the less you care."
In "Josie's Taste Of The West Country," the presenter delights in showcasing local produce from Gloucestershire to Cornwall. "I've always wanted to do a 'taste of the West Country' show as a nod to where I live," Josie beams.
From watercress farms to cider factories, Josie celebrates the diverse and rich culinary offerings of her region. "We've got the best ciders and cheese from down here. The only official Cheddar cheese comes out of Cheddar."
The series, airing on ITV and ITVX, not only highlights the region's flavors but also its passionate people. "It was lovely to give them a nod and actually get them recognized," Josie reflects. "To bring them to the forefront."