For almost 30 years, Susie Dent has found herself a staple of the British television schedule as Countdown’s lexicographer in Dictionary Corner. The 55-year-old mum of two has watched the world change, seen new words invented, and her star rise to where she is now considered part of the furniture on the Channel 4 show. But despite the success she has seen in her professional career, her two kids at home still aren’t on board with mum being a celeb.
“I’m definitely the uncool mum,” laughs Susie when we ask what her children – Lucy, 18, and Thea, 10 – think of Mum and her dictionary obsession making her a recognizable face.
It’s this seemingly “uncool” nature, which Susie herself is critical of, that has sadly ruled out the possibility of her stepping out of her comfort zone and on to the Strictly dance floor. “I don’t think Strictly would ever happen for me,” she laughs, ruling out following in her Countdown co-star Rachel Riley’s footsteps. Mathematician Rachel appeared on the hit BBC show, which led to her marrying professional Pasha Kovalev in 2019. Susie adds, “I can only dance well when I’m drunk or in the dark, so I think that in a full spotlight in front of millions is such a long way away from where I’d feel comfortable.”
With the release of her new book Word Perfect, we speak to the daytime regular about working with Jimmy Carr, her dislike of being in the public spotlight, and why she’s thrilled words have finally become sexy... ish...
Was being the UK’s word expert always your life goal?
Denne historien er fra October 06, 2020-utgaven av OK! UK.
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Denne historien er fra October 06, 2020-utgaven av OK! UK.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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Savoury saviours
Get ahead with simple spicy suppers from Nadiya Hussain
RECIPES FOR SUCCESS - I want to share the way I cook and the way I eat'
Chef Nadiya Hussain on the money-saving cooking tips and vital life skills that she teaches her children.
THE WILD ONE - Nobody tried to change me that was who I am
Rock star Suzi Quatro on leading the way for women, being true to herself and her 60th anniversary tour
CELEBRITIES PUT ON THE GLITZ FOR TV'S BIGGEST NIGHT
Famous faces gathered at the National Television Awards last week to celebrate the best of Britain's TV talent
IN THE PINK - I feel like myself again now I'm back in the Strictly family'
After documenting her brutal cancer journey, Strictly favourite Amy Dowden shares her joy at returning to the dance floor
STYLE COUNSEL - My friendships are one of my greatest successes'
As stylist Gok Wan celebrates his milestone birthday, he reflects on his personal losses, biggest achievements and plans for the future
STEP BACK IN TIME - STARS ENJOY A DAY AT THE RACES
A host of celebrities attended the Goodwood Revival festival last week to see the classic cars and fabulous retro fashions
GOOD CLEAN FUN - 'I really like to organise things I find it therapeutic'
Sort Your Life Out presenter Stacey Solomon on how tidying up helps her shut out anxious thoughts, the reason she only shares happy memories on social media, and why it's husband Joe Swash who puts out the bins
SHINING BRIGHT - KATE'S MESSAGE OF HOPE
Her emotional health update video made it clear that the Princess of Wales' family comes first, says former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond.
My family will always be my main priority'
Model and actress Caprice invites OK! into her stylish home to talk about fame and why nothing beats being with her kids.