DIY SOS has been a staple of British television for nearly 25 years, with the first series launching on October 7, 1999. For more than two decades, BBC audiences have witnessed hundreds of home renovations as teams unite to revamp family residences. The programme, first aired in 1999, was initially designed to provide homeowners with the chance to have their botched DIY tasks professionally completed. The well-loved show, which has expanded in both duration and breadth over the years, was initially hosted by Lowri Turner and Nick Knowles. It wasn’t long before they were joined by additional presenters such as Billy Byrne, Julian Perryman, Chris Frediani, and later Mark Miller.
Initially, each week viewers would cast votes to select one of three families they deemed most deserving. In 2010, the show underwent a format overhaul, adding ‘Big Build’ to its title as audiences watched the team undertake much larger projects. Alongside the professional team, local tradespeople also participated, volunteering their time and resources to contribute to community initiatives. Despite being off-air for the past two years, it has been announced that DIY SOS: The Big Build will be making a comeback on the BBC, under the stewardship of a new production company – South Shore.
As the renovation programme marks its 25th anniversary, let’s take a look at where the presenters are now. After eight series, Lowri Turner chose to leave DIY SOS. Since leaving the limelight, Lowri has pursued a new career as a nutritionist and hypnotherapist, focusing on weight loss. She also writes health articles for various newspapers and magazines, has authored two health books, and regularly appears as a panellist on Channel Five’s The Wright Stuff. Meanwhile, Nick has continued to be a part of DIY SOS since its inception and has made appearances on numerous other TV shows, including 5-Star Family Reunion, I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!, Nick Knowles in South America, and even a cameo in Hollyoaks.
He is currently competing in BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing alongside professional dancer Luba Mushtuk. Outside of his television career, Nick has four children and has been married twice, getting engaged to Katie Dadzie last year after meeting at their son’s play centre. Billy, another original member of the DIY SOS team, has become a fan favourite over the years. An electrician from Welwyn Garden City in Hertfordshire, Billy learned his trade in the 1960s and is affectionately known as the “Prince of Darkness” on the show, often being the target of good-natured jokes.
Tragically, his daughter Emma passed away at the age of 20 due to cancer, a topic he rarely discusses, although he did open up about it in a 2020 episode of BBC DIY SOS. DIY SOS fans will know Julian Perryman as the skilled builder who began his career at just 16, learning the trade from his father as they worked on new houses together. Not only accomplished in building, but Julian is also a dab hand at plastering and other non-structural jobs, endearing him to viewers of the popular BBC show.
A friendship spanning decades, Julian has known his co-star Chris Frediani since their junior school days, bringing a sense of camaraderie to the screen. Before their stint on the renovation programme, both had successful separate businesses yet frequently collaborated on projects, showcasing teamwork that would later become a staple on DIY SOS. At 17, Chris Frediani took his first steps into the world of plastering and over the years has honed his skills to become an expert plasterer, admired for his versatility and proficiency.
Mark Millar, originally hailing from Ireland where he completed his apprenticeship as a carpenter, is another familiar face from the BBC series, now settled in Bristol. With a diverse background working not only across the UK but also in Europe and the US, Mark has brought his expertise to the screen as the build manager entrusted with the challenge of tight project deadlines. His role on television extends beyond DIY SOS; he also fronts Channel 5’s Dream Kitchens And Bathrooms and contributes to BBC’s How Safe Is Your House, demonstrating his versatile presenting skills.