ITV stars Kelvin Fletcher and his wife Liz have opened up about their surprising transition into farming, revealing the challenges and unexpected rewards of their new rural life.
In a repeat episode of James Martin’s Saturday Morning, airing today (13 June) on ITV1, the couple candidly discussed their experience filming Fletchers' Family Farm. The series chronicles their life with four children on an 18th-century farm in the Peak District, a far cry from their life in the entertainment industry.
Kelvin explained to host James Martin how the show came to be: “We thought this might be interesting—at least for us—to document our journey into farming and this new lifestyle. We pitched the idea, and ITV was on board. Four series later, here we are.”
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James Martin noted the drastic change in their plans. Originally intent on relocating to America to explore acting opportunities, Kelvin and Liz had secured visas for the US. However, the COVID-19 pandemic halted those plans indefinitely. Liz recounted, “The visas were paused for at least two years, so we had to rethink everything. We’d already sold the house and suddenly found ourselves looking at this farm instead.”
Despite the sudden change, neither Kelvin nor Liz had farming backgrounds. James humorously commented on Kelvin’s previous role as a farmer on Emmerdale, to which Kelvin admitted, “For 20 years I played a farmer on screen but barely did any real farming. It was more drama—shotguns, prison, multiple marriages! Real farming knowledge was minimal.”
The couple’s move to the Peak District was initially about seeking a quieter, more connected life. “We just wanted a peaceful environment for our children and to be closer to nature,” Kelvin said. “Owning sheep almost happened by chance, as that’s what most neighbors had.”
Liz shared their growing passion for farming: “What started as an idyllic dream has become a full-blown obsession. Even though it’s been overwhelming at times, this lifestyle has really become our world.”
Kelvin reflected on the unexpected turn: “I can’t imagine us doing anything else now. It’s been a gamble, but one that’s paid off.”
Liz concluded with a light-hearted note, admitting, “Looking back, I don’t think we would have lasted two minutes in LA!” She also appreciated the opportunity to “amend your failings” on the farm, emphasizing the growth they’ve experienced through hands-on learning.
Fletchers' Family Farm and James Martin’s Saturday Morning are both available to stream on ITVX.