Adam Frost, a familiar face on Gardeners' World since 2016, offered a succinct six-word reply when asked about stepping into Monty Don’s shoes as the show’s lead presenter. At 55, Adam has served primarily as a stand-in for Monty Don, who has been the show’s iconic host for over two decades.
Monty, 69, recently revealed his intention to retire “within the next five years” to conserve his energy for other pursuits. Along with presenting Gardeners’ World, Monty maintains a two-acre garden in Herefordshire and continues to write books. His potential departure has sparked questions about who might take over.
When The Sunday Times inquired if he wished to replace Monty, Adam responded, “I’m comfortable being the supply teacher.” He further predicted that instead of a single successor, Gardeners’ World would likely move toward a team of co-presenters.
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Monty himself has expressed a desire to see a female presenter take the helm. He explained the traditionally male-dominated nature of horticulture, noting that although many talented women gardeners exist, male designers dominate events like the Chelsea Flower Show. Monty considers fresh perspectives key to the show’s evolution.
“I think anything that encourages new thoughts, new people, new ideas is healthy,” Monty said, highlighting the importance of diversity in the gardening community. As he contemplates stepping back, Monty hopes to focus more on making documentaries.
Monty’s tenure on Gardeners’ World began when he succeeded Alan Titchmarsh, becoming the first self-taught gardener to front the flagship programme. His signature greetings and moments with his dogs have endeared him to viewers, making any change on the show notable.
Meanwhile, Adam Frost has gained his own following. Though he recently downsized from an 18th-century farmhouse to a more modest home in Lincolnshire, he feels this transition makes him more relatable to viewers. The decision to settle in the new home, shared with his wife Sulina and their four children, ultimately rests with her.
As Monty Don’s retirement draws nearer, Gardeners’ World appears poised for a new chapter—one that embraces fresh faces and diverse voices while maintaining the beloved spirit of the show.