Matt Baker, renowned for his roles on programmes such as The One Show, Countryfile, and his farming documentaries, has shared heartfelt reflections on his early television career during a recent interview. At 48, Baker is venturing into new projects, including a podcast called Petcast, where he invites guests to discuss various topics related to animals.
Recalling his transition when he first joined Blue Peter, Baker revealed how moving to London marked the first time he had been without a dog, leaving him feeling somewhat “quite lost.” He explained the significance of bringing a canine companion into his life again, which led to the arrival of Meg, a border collie from a neighbour’s farm in Durham. Meg accompanied him for seven years on the show, becoming a beloved figure for the nation’s children as they followed her journey from puppyhood to having her own pups.
“Blue Peter supported me. Meg came from a neighbour’s farm up in Durham. We covered me rearing her as a puppy to her having pups herself and the nation’s children took her to their hearts,” Baker said.
READ MORE: Woman Charged After Stabbing Incident Near Cheltenham
READ MORE: Update on Cheltenham Municipal Offices Sale and Future Plans
Following Meg’s passing in 2011, Baker spent her final years with her on the farm, reflecting on how her presence on television provided joy and comfort to children, particularly those who could not have a dog themselves. He expressed pride in the shared connection formed between Meg and the viewers.
After departing Blue Peter, Baker joined the Countryfile presenting team in 2014 and continues to be an active member, despite appearing less frequently. In an interview with The Sun, he confirmed his intention to remain with Countryfile in the foreseeable future.
Between 2011 and 2020, Baker also co-hosted The One Show alongside Alex Jones. Post-television presenting, he co-founded the production company Big Circus Media with Gareth Collett. Through this company, he produced Our Dream Farm with Matt Baker, a series highlighting the National Trust’s search for a tenant to manage a 600-acre farm in Snowdonia National Park. The programme last aired in 2025, with no current plans announced for a new series.
Baker is now expanding his focus on animal-related content, both through his podcast and an upcoming BBC Two daytime series, Matt Baker: Life With Dogs, produced by Big Circus Media. He described the new show as celebrating the bond between humans and dogs, incorporating his professional dog training experience and featuring remarkable dogs that enhance human lives in diverse ways, from cancer detection to aiding communication.
“Dogs have been a lifelong passion of mine and I’m so excited to be making this series about the bond between humans and dogs,” Baker commented to The Mirror. “It’s the ultimate show to celebrate our lives with dogs.”