Angela Rippon, born on 12 October 1944 in Plymouth, Devon, has cemented her place as one of the most respected and well-loved figures in British broadcasting. With a career spanning over five decades, Rippon’s work has ranged from hard-hitting news reporting to light-hearted entertainment, and her legacy is defined by her versatility, commitment, and groundbreaking achievements.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Angela Rippon grew up in a working-class family as the only child of John Rippon, a Royal Marine, and Edna Rippon, a seamstress. Her academic journey led her to Plymouth University, and from there, she embarked on a career in journalism, initially working for local newspapers and radio stations.
Her first significant breakthrough came when she joined BBC South West in the 1960s, where she worked as a reporter. Rippon’s dedication and natural on-screen presence were soon recognized, and she made the leap to national television in 1975, becoming the first woman to present BBC One’s prestigious Nine O’Clock News on a permanent basis. This marked a historic moment in British broadcasting, as Rippon broke gender barriers and paved the way for future generations of female journalists and broadcasters.
Angela Rippon Television Career and Major Milestones
Angela Rippon’s career is defined by her remarkable ability to adapt and thrive in different formats and genres. Beyond her groundbreaking role as a national newsreader, Rippon became one of the most recognizable faces on British television, presenting a wide range of programs across the years. Some of her major career highlights include:
1. Rip Off Britain
One of her most beloved roles was as the co-presenter of the BBC consumer affairs program Rip Off Britain. This show, which aimed to expose scams, provide consumer advice, and highlight injustices, became a long-running favorite. For years, Rippon worked alongside fellow presenters like Gloria Hunniford and Julia Somerville, giving viewers a reliable source of information and empowering them to stand up against unfair practices. Her calm, authoritative presence was central to the show’s success.
However, in recent years, Rippon took a step back from Rip Off Britain. She was replaced by Louise Minchin in 2025 after taking a break to focus on other projects. Fans of Rippon continue to speculate about her return to the show, but for now, her absence has left a noticeable gap in the program.
2. Eurovision Song Contest 1977
Rippon’s star power reached new heights when she hosted the Eurovision Song Contest in 1977, a live international event that drew millions of viewers across Europe. Her grace and poise on stage made her a natural choice for the role, further solidifying her reputation as a versatile broadcaster.
3. Strictly Come Dancing
Angela Rippon made a history-making appearance on Strictly Come Dancing in 2023. At the age of 79, she became the oldest contestant ever to compete on the show, demonstrating her belief in staying active and healthy as one ages. Partnering with professional dancer Kai Widdrington, Rippon’s energetic routines won the hearts of fans, and her performance was widely celebrated as an inspiration to older generations.
Angela Rippon Personal Life and Relationships
While Angela Rippon’s professional life has been widely documented, her personal life has remained relatively private. She married Christopher Dare, an engineer, in 1967. However, the couple divorced in 1989, and Rippon has been open about the challenges she faced during that period. Despite her public success, her personal life has been marked by a sense of introspection, and she has shared that her career’s demands contributed to the breakdown of her marriage.
Since her divorce, Rippon has not remarried and has had no children, focusing on her career and personal well-being. While there has been speculation about her relationships over the years, she has remained largely private about her romantic life, choosing to keep her focus on her work, fitness, and philanthropic endeavors.
Health and Fitness Advocacy
As she enters her 80s, Angela Rippon is an advocate for maintaining good health and fitness in later life. Known for her energy, she continues to stay physically active through regular exercise routines, including Pilates, cycling, and dance. Rippon’s appearance on Strictly Come Dancing demonstrated her commitment to staying fit and young at heart.
Her advocacy for staying physically and mentally active resonates deeply with her audience. Rippon frequently speaks about how exercise, good nutrition, and a positive outlook can help people age gracefully, and she remains an influential figure in promoting healthy aging.
Angela Rippon Net Worth and Legacy
Angela Rippon’s net worth is estimated to be around $10 million, a testament to her long and successful career in broadcasting. From her roles as a newsreader, presenter, and public figure, Rippon has built a substantial fortune through her media work, television appearances, and various business ventures.
Rippon’s legacy in British television cannot be overstated. She was one of the first women to take on significant roles in male-dominated spaces, and her career served as a beacon of opportunity for other women in journalism and broadcasting. Whether she was presenting the news, hosting entertainment shows, or tackling consumer affairs, Rippon has always been known for her professionalism, wit, and charm.
Interesting Facts About Angela Rippon
- Iconic Moment with Morecambe & Wise: Rippon made an unforgettable appearance in the 1970s on the Morecambe & Wise Christmas Special, where she famously danced with Eric Morecambe — a moment that is still remembered fondly by television audiences.
- First Female National Newsreader: In 1975, Rippon broke new ground by becoming the first female newsreader on BBC One’s Nine O’Clock News, a role that had been dominated by men until then.
- A Lifelong Love of Dance: Angela has always had a passion for dancing. In addition to her appearance on Strictly, she has supported various initiatives encouraging older people to stay active through dance.
- Books and Writing: In addition to her work on television, Angela Rippon has authored books, including guides on aging well and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Conclusion
Angela Rippon is, without a doubt, one of the most iconic broadcasters in the UK. Her career, spanning over 50 years, has been marked by groundbreaking achievements and a continual presence in British television. From being the first woman to anchor the BBC Nine O’Clock News to becoming the oldest competitor on Strictly Come Dancing, Rippon has always pushed boundaries, proving that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing one’s passions.
With a reputation as a trailblazer for women in media and a legacy of making audiences laugh, cry, and think, Angela Rippon’s career continues to inspire future generations of broadcasters, journalists, and everyday people who admire her grace, resilience, and commitment to lifelong learning.