Ever since they joined Channel 4’s “Gogglebox” in 2015, audiences have been charmed by Giles Wood and Mary Killen. They have become fan favorites with their witty banter and different viewpoints. Outside of the television show, both their personal and professional lives provide a beautifully woven patchwork fabric of experiences.
Early Life and Meeting
Giles and Mary both come from artistic families. They dated at 21 when Giles was a student at Wimbledon Art School and Mary Killen was a model. Their mutual love of the arts set the stage for their lifelong bond.
Careers Outside Gogglebox
He is an accomplished artist and known for his landscape paintings which reflect the essence of English countryside. He also writes for the magazine “The Oldie,” where he addresses issues from the environment to politics. Mary Killen is an etiquette expert and author, based in Northern Ireland. She writes an agony column for “The Spectator” and is the author of several books, including “How the Queen Can Make You Happy.”
Life on Gogglebox
From the outset on “Gogglebox,” Giles and Mary have been beloved for their candid remarks and their use of the affectionate nickname “Nutty,” which they call one another. “We call one another ‘Nutty’ because we feel both of us are a little mad,” Mary explained. Their dynamic gives viewers a warts-and-all look at their relationship.
Personal Life and Home
The couple lives in a cute cottage in Wiltshire, nicknamed “The Grottage.” They have lived there for over 30 years, and its eclectic decor mirrors their personalities. Despite its attractive appearance, the home has some quirks, including a lack of central heating and peeling paint.
Financial Milestone
Giles and Mary earned enough from “Gogglebox” to pay off their mortgage, they revealed in August 2023. “I think we possibly paid off the mortgage,” Giles remembered, how the show helped their finances.
Net Worth
There is a variety of estimates of Giles and Mary’s net worth. Some reports put it at £300,000 and £500,000 due to their television winnings and solo careers. But the exact number is not public knowledge.
Family
Giles and Mary are the parents of two adult daughters who would rather remain out of the spotlight. Another daughter was first approached to screen alongside Giles on “Gogglebox,” but she refused to do so, prompting Mary Killen to fill the gap.
Marriage Dynamics
Their chemistry on screen is just like their real-life relationship. Mary has previously revealed that “Gogglebox” has strengthened their marriage, saying, “Giles and I were like ships that pass in the night…Now we both stop what we’re doing and sit down to watch TV.” Their playful bickering and mutual admiration is relatable for many viewers.
Public Perception
Giles and Mary live a rather private life despite their fame on TV. Giles also said that he was surprised he’d been recognised, saying: “I live such a quiet life, I’m always surprised that people recognise me at all.” It is one of their many great collective qualities, wedged between humility and authenticity, and it’s part of why they are so universally beloved.