Isabel Oakeshott is a prominent British journalist, known for her investigative work, political commentary, and controversial reporting. Over the years, she has made a significant impact in the media landscape, with a career that spans from regional newspapers to major national outlets and broadcast platforms. Her sharp insights into British politics and fearless approach to reporting have made her a well-known figure, both respected and criticized.
Early Life and Education
Isabel Oakeshott was born on 12 June 1974 in Westminster, London, England, which makes her 51 years old as of 2025. Raised in a family with strong intellectual ties, she attended St George’s School in Edinburgh and later Gordonstoun School in Scotland. Oakeshott pursued a BA in History from the University of Bristol, graduating in 1996. Her academic background in history played a key role in shaping her analytical approach to journalism and political commentary.
Isabel Oakeshott Career Highlights
Oakeshott’s career began in Scotland, where she worked for several regional publications including the Edinburgh Evening News, Daily Record, and the Sunday Mirror. She later moved to London, where she took on the role of Health Correspondent at the Evening Standard. Her career reached new heights in 2006 when she joined The Sunday Times as Deputy Political Editor, and by 2010, she became the Political Editor — a significant achievement, as she was one of the first women to hold this prestigious position. She played a pivotal role in major political stories and investigative reporting, which later led to her prominent place in the media.
In addition to her editorial roles, Oakeshott is a celebrated author and ghostwriter. She co-authored the unauthorized biography of former UK Prime Minister David Cameron, Call Me Dave, and has worked on several books about political, social, and economic issues, including Farmageddon (about industrial-scale farming) and Pandemic Diaries (a controversial account of the UK government’s response to COVID-19, co-authored with former Health Secretary Matt Hancock).
Oakeshott has also been involved in high-profile investigations, including her 2019 publishing of leaked diplomatic cables from UK Ambassador Sir Kim Darroch, which led to his resignation. This act exemplified her fearless approach to political journalism and willingness to challenge the status quo.
Isabel Oakeshott Personal Life and Family
Isabel Oakeshott was previously married to Nigel Rosser, an American, with whom she has three children. She later entered into a long-term relationship with Richard Tice, the Deputy Leader of Reform UK, but they have not publicly married. Oakeshott’s personal life has occasionally made headlines, especially her partnership with Tice, whose political views are aligned with her own, contributing to her positioning in conservative circles.
In 2025, Oakeshott made headlines once again when she confirmed her relocation to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, citing the UK’s new tax policies on private school fees as one of the driving factors. This move marked a significant shift in her lifestyle, with Oakeshott now spending a considerable amount of time outside the UK, although she continues to play an active role in British political discussions through her media work.
Isabel Oakeshott Net Worth
Oakeshott’s net worth is estimated to be between £1 million to £2 million, with sources of income including her journalism roles, book deals, and speaking engagements. Her high-profile position as a political editor, coupled with her involvement in bestselling books, has enabled her to amass considerable wealth.
Controversies and Public Image
Isabel Oakeshott has faced several controversies during her career. Her involvement in publishing unverified claims, such as the “piggate” scandal involving David Cameron, led to criticism from some quarters. However, her work in leaking sensitive information, like the Lockdown Files (Matt Hancock’s WhatsApp messages), sparked a heated debate on journalistic ethics. Despite the backlash, Oakeshott has defended her actions, arguing that her work serves the public interest.
Her political leanings and personal connections with right-wing figures like Richard Tice have also fueled speculation about her biases, with some critics questioning the impartiality of her reporting. Nonetheless, Oakeshott’s influence in British journalism cannot be overstated; she remains one of the most recognized faces in UK media, known for her investigative skills and commentary on current affairs.
Height, Religion, and Other Personal Details
While there are no public records confirming Isabel Oakeshott’s exact height or religious beliefs, she is known for her strong public presence in the media. As for her family background, while some sources suggest she may be related to the philosopher Michael Oakeshott, there is no verified confirmation of a direct connection.
Conclusion
Isabel Oakeshott’s career trajectory has made her one of the most influential political journalists in the UK today. Her blend of investigative journalism, bold publishing decisions, and association with high-profile figures has placed her at the intersection of media, politics, and public life. Despite the controversies surrounding her work, Oakeshott remains a formidable voice in political reporting, continually challenging the boundaries of media ethics and journalistic responsibility. Whether loved or loathed, her contributions to the field of journalism cannot be denied, and she continues to shape the political narrative through her work.