Kelvin Fletcher Reflects on His Transition from Actor to Farmer: "This is the Life for Us"
Kelvin Fletcher, known for his iconic role as farmer Andy Sugden in Emmerdale , has taken on the role of a real-life farmer, much to the surprise of fans. After two decades on screen, Fletcher swapped his fictional farm in the Yorkshire Dales for the real thing, settling with his wife, Liz, and their four children in the Peak District. Their journey is captured in the TV series Fletcher’s Family Farm , where they navigate the challenges of becoming first-time farmers. But despite his past portrayal of farm life, Fletcher has made it clear: he doesn’t want to be compared to the likes of Jeremy Clarkson.
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While Clarkson’s Clarkson’s Farm has made waves in the farming community, Fletcher insists that his show is different. Unlike Clarkson’s often outspoken approach, Fletcher and his family present a more gentle, family-friendly perspective of rural life. “I don’t want to be compared to Clarkson,” he says. “There are so many unique shows out there, and each one stands on its own.” In contrast to the brash and humorous tone of Clarkson’s farming adventures, Fletcher’s series showcases the day-to-day realities of managing a small family farm, with plenty of heart and humor along the way. The documentary-style show has won over viewers, particularly those from farming backgrounds, who appreciate its authenticity and relatability.
Fletcher’s path to farming was not a conventional one. After winning Strictly Come Dancing in 2019, he and Liz had dreams of moving to California. However, the pandemic and other challenges prevented the big move, leading them to instead invest in a property with 120 acres of land in Cheshire. “We wanted a change,” Fletcher reflects. “It was a big decision, but we’re so glad we made it. This lifestyle suits us.”
For Fletcher, farming has become more than just a career change – it’s a lifestyle that encapsulates everything he values about life. “Farming is the one industry that truly mirrors life,” he explains. “There are ups and downs, triumphs and losses, and it teaches you the values of hard work, patience, and resilience.” These lessons are not just for him and Liz, but for their children as well. His daughter Marnie, already showing an interest in the family’s farm, has taken to shepherding with enthusiasm. Meanwhile, Milo and the twins, Maximus and Mateusz, are still at the stage where they are more likely to cause mischief than offer help.
The transition from city life to rural living wasn’t without its challenges, but the couple has immersed themselves fully in their new role. They run a mixed farm, raising native breed sheep, pigs, and cows. The journey has been a steep learning curve, but the Fletcher family has quickly adapted. “We didn’t know anything about farming before,” says Liz. “But now, it’s our life. We’re hands-on, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.” The couple credits the local farming community for helping them navigate this new world. “The support we’ve received has been incredible,” says Liz. “People are so generous with their knowledge, and that has made all the difference.”
Despite their new farming venture, acting is still very much part of the equation. Kelvin admits he’s not sure whether to describe himself as an actor, a farmer, or a stay-at-home dad. “I’ve always had a bit of a panic attack when it comes to filling out forms and having to state my profession,” he jokes. But with their farm flourishing and their show bringing attention to the importance of local, sustainable farming, the Fletchers are determined to keep their family’s story alive on screen.
For Kelvin and Liz, farming is about more than just producing food – it’s about living with purpose and reconnecting with the land. They encourage others to support local farms and buy British produce, highlighting how small family farms like theirs play a crucial role in the country’s agricultural future. With their first year of selling farm produce direct to consumers underway, the Fletchers are excited for what’s next. As they look ahead, they remain deeply committed to their farm, their family, and their vision of a more sustainable future for British agriculture. For them, this is the life they’ve always dreamed of, and they wouldn’t change a thing.
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