The BBC’s beloved series, The Repair Shop, is known for restoring treasured family heirlooms and mementos, but behind the scenes, the experience often runs deep with emotion. Julie Tatchell and Amanda Middleditch, affectionately known as the ‘Teddy Bear Ladies,’ recently opened up about the emotional challenges they face while filming the hit programme.
Speaking on Alan Titchmarsh’s ITV show, Amanda Middleditch revealed that although viewers rarely see it, she frequently becomes emotional during filming—often retreating to cry away from the cameras. “There is always a stash hidden, so we can grab a tissue if we need one,” she said, highlighting how the production team deliberately limits the amount of emotional footage aired to keep episodes balanced.
Amanda shared her personal coping mechanism for managing overwhelming feelings during reveals: hugging guests after presenting restored items to ground herself. Alan, who himself has been moved to tears on the show, asked how they maintain composure in such tender moments. Amanda explained, “That’s why I tend to shuffle around to give her a bit of a hug—it gives me something to focus on.”
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Julie Tatchell added that their ability to support each other makes the emotional aspects more manageable. “You could see I was about to lose it—it was quite clear,” she admitted. “We play off each other; when one starts to get overwhelmed, the other will steer the conversation.”
Though fans often wonder if the pair are related due to their close bond, Julie and Amanda are longtime friends rather than family. Their partnership began in 2006, united by a shared passion for toy restoration and inspiring others to discover the joys of needlework. Together, they have run creative sessions involving teddy bears and plush toys, delighting children and parents alike at unique birthday parties.
Since The Repair Shop launched in 2017, the ‘Teddy Bear Ladies’ have become an integral and much-loved part of the programme, bringing skill and heart to every restoration.