Loose Women panellist Penny Lancaster appeared on Saturday Morning with James Martin, sharing an intimate glimpse into her early life challenges and triumphs. Joining TV chef James Martin alongside singer Alfie Boe, Penny discussed her professional journey and personal hurdles, especially living with undiagnosed dyslexia.
Penny candidly described her school years as “terrifying,” struggling with learning difficulties during a time when dyslexia was rarely recognised. Unlike some classmates, she wasn’t given special support, leaving her to face the challenge alone. Diagnosed only at the age of 46, Penny’s learning difference profoundly shaped her path.
Born on March 15, 1971, and raised in Essex, Penny was discovered as a model in her early twenties before transitioning into photography. It was behind the camera that she met her husband, legendary musician Rod Stewart, in 1998. The couple married in 2007 and have two children.
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Discussing Rod’s steadfast encouragement, Penny recalled a moment at a charity event when she was asked to read aloud—a daunting task due to her dyslexia. Rod’s gentle reassurance, “Go on, Pen, you can do it,” helped her overcome her fear.
Her memoir, Someone Like Me, recently published in paperback, chronicles her life and professional triumphs. Penny described the personal achievement of recording the audiobook herself, despite her longstanding fear of reading aloud. “That was a huge accomplishment for me,” she shared.
When asked if Rod Stewart had finished reading her book, Penny laughed, recounting how he refused to leave the poolside during a storm until he finished the last paragraph—resulting in a water-damaged copy cherished nonetheless.
Saturday Morning with James Martin airs Saturdays at 9.25am on ITV1 and streams on ITVX.