Josh Widdicombe is married to Rose Hanson, a highly successful British television producer known for her work on major comedy programs. The couple officially tied the knot in 2019 after several years of dating, having first met approximately six years prior to their wedding. Rose Hanson has built an authoritative career behind the scenes, contributing to hit shows such as 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, Live at the Apollo, and Would I Lie To You?. Beyond her professional life in the television industry, Rose is also the co-founder of the interior design studio Penrose Tilbury, showcasing a diverse range of creative talents.
Who is Rose Hanson?
Rose Hanson is an established television producer and researcher who has worked with some of the biggest names in British comedy. Unlike her husband, who thrives in front of the camera on The Last Leg and various panel shows, Rose prefers to maintain a position behind the scenes, where she has been a driving force for numerous BAFTA-winning production teams. Her professional portfolio includes significant stints as a researcher for Never Mind the Buzzcocks and an assistant producer for Alan Carr: Chatty Man.
Beyond her television accolades, Rose is a creative entrepreneur. She recently co-founded Penrose Tilbury, a boutique interior design studio that emphasizes calm, thoughtful aesthetics. This venture allows her to apply her eye for detail to physical spaces, most notably seen in the couple’s recent high-profile renovation of their family home in Cornwall. Her ability to pivot between the fast-paced world of television production and the curated world of interior design highlights her versatility as a professional.
The 2019 Wedding Details
Josh Widdicombe and Rose Hanson married in 2019 in a private ceremony attended by close friends, family, and several fixtures of the UK comedy circuit. While the couple keeps many specifics of their nuptials out of the tabloid press, it is known that the wedding took place after a long-term relationship that began roughly in 2013. Their partnership is often described by friends as a “meeting of minds,” with both partners possessing a deep understanding of the entertainment industry.
The timing of their wedding coincided with a peak in Josh’s career, yet they chose a low-key celebration rather than a flashy celebrity gala. This preference for privacy has remained a hallmark of their relationship. By marrying a fellow industry professional, Josh has often noted that Rose provides a grounded perspective on the “madness” of show business, serving as both a partner and a professional confidante.
Rose’s Famous Family Heritage
One of the most charming facts about Rose Hanson is her direct connection to British children’s television history. Her mother was the creative mind behind Zippy, the iconic orange puppet from the long-running kids’ show Rainbow. This “showbiz in the blood” element has become a humorous talking point for Josh during interviews, where he jokes about the surreal nature of being married to the daughter of the woman who created one of the most recognizable characters of his childhood.
During an appearance on Rob Brydon’s podcast, Josh humorously mused about the coincidence, suggesting that if a Hollywood movie were made about his life, the plot twist of marrying into the “Zippy dynasty” would be almost too perfect to believe. This heritage isn’t just a fun trivia point; it underscores the deep roots Rose has within the creative arts in the United Kingdom. Her mother’s legacy of innovation in television clearly paved the way for Rose’s own successful trajectory as a producer.
Children and Family Life
Josh and Rose are the parents of two children: a daughter named Pearl, born in October 2017, and a son named Cassius, born in May 2021. The couple is famously protective of their children’s privacy, rarely sharing photos of their faces on social media, though Josh frequently discusses the “hell” and “highs” of fatherhood on his hit podcast, Parenting Hell, alongside co-host Rob Beckett. These candid discussions have made the Widdicombe-Hanson household a relatable touchstone for thousands of parents across the country.
The family recently made a significant lifestyle change, moving from the trendy but bustling streets of Shoreditch to a “sleepier” area of East London to provide a more traditional upbringing for their kids. Additionally, they purchased a six-bedroom property in Mullion, Cornwall, which serves as a sanctuary away from the London spotlight. This dual-location lifestyle allows the children to experience both the cultural richness of the capital and the natural beauty of the South West coast.
The Cornwall House Renovation
In 2022, Josh and Rose embarked on an ambitious renovation project at their Cornwall estate, known as Penrose House. Rose utilized her expertise from Penrose Tilbury to transform the property into a luxurious yet functional family home. The renovation was extensive, featuring a natural swimming pool (complete with local wildlife like newts), a timber sauna cabin, and interiors decorated with gentle colors and intricate patterns.
The project was more than just a home improvement task; it was a way for the couple to “slow down” and build a legacy for their children. Local landscapers from Yello Landscape and Design were commissioned to use Delabole slate and other locally sourced materials to ensure the garden integrated perfectly with the Cornish environment. Rose’s vision for the house was to create a “calm and thoughtfully designed space,” which has since been featured in various lifestyle publications as a masterclass in modern rural design.
Handling Life’s Challenges Together
The couple has been notably open about the difficulties they have faced, including the heartbreak of a miscarriage prior to the birth of their son, Cassius. Josh spoke movingly about this experience on Parenting Hell, explaining the anxiety that follows such a loss when a subsequent pregnancy occurs. He described the feeling of not wanting to “tempt fate” by announcing news too early, a sentiment that resonated deeply with their audience.
This openness has helped destigmatize the topic of pregnancy loss for many men, as Josh provided a rare father’s perspective on the grief and subsequent “perilous” feeling of a following pregnancy. Rose’s strength during this period and their mutual support of one another have been central themes in the few glimpses the public gets into their private bond. Their ability to navigate such personal tragedies while maintaining high-pressure careers is a testament to the solidity of their marriage.
Key Dates for the Couple
- Met: Circa 2013
- First Child (Pearl): October 2017
- Married: 2019
- Second Child (Cassius): May 2021
- Cornwall Property Purchase: 2022
What to Expect from Their Media Presence
Fans can expect Josh to continue sharing humorous anecdotes about Rose and the kids on Parenting Hell, but Rose herself is unlikely to seek a front-of-camera role. Her focus remains on her design studio, Penrose Tilbury, and her high-level production work. For those looking to follow their design journey, the Penrose Tilbury Instagram account offers occasional aesthetic insights into their renovation style.
Rose Hanson’s Production Career
While Josh Widdicombe is the face of the family, Rose Hanson is a formidable force in the United Kingdom’s television production sector. She has served as a producer and researcher for some of the most critically acclaimed comedy programs on the BBC, Channel 4, and Dave. Her ability to curate talent and develop sharp, fast-paced comedic segments has made her a sought-after professional in the industry.
Rose’s career highlights include working on the production teams for “8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown” and “Live at the Apollo”. These shows are known for their high-energy environments and reliance on precise comedic timing, skills that Rose has mastered over her decade-plus in the field. She also played a key role as an assistant producer for “Alan Carr: Chatty Man” and “Would I Lie To You?”, where her research often provided the “hooks” for the celebrities’ most famous anecdotes.
Behind the Scenes of Comedy
In the world of British panel shows, the role of a researcher is vital for the delivery of punchlines. Rose began her journey as a researcher for the legendary music quiz “Never Mind the Buzzcocks”, a show famous for its chaotic energy and niche trivia. This early experience in a high-pressure environment likely shaped her meticulous approach to later projects, ensuring that every guest and every joke was backed by solid preparation.
Interior Design and Penrose Tilbury
Transitioning from the screen to the home, Rose Hanson has established herself as a leading name in high-end residential design. She is the co-founder of Penrose Tilbury, a design studio she launched alongside Charlotte “Charlie” Tilbury. The partnership began organically when Rose hired Charlie to consult on her own London property, leading to a “dynamic and exciting design alliance” that prioritizes comfort and timelessness.
The philosophy of Penrose Tilbury is rooted in “design-led comfort”, a style that avoids being overly precious while embracing bold, artistic flourishes. Rose often integrates vintage Italian lighting and antique finds into her projects, believing that every room should contain items that make people smile. This professional pivot has allowed her to express a different facet of her creativity, moving from the temporal world of television to the permanent world of physical spaces.
The Parisian Influence
Rose and her partner Charlie frequently draw inspiration from French flea markets, specifically the Marchés Aux Puces in Paris. This international influence is evident in their use of warm earth tones, pastel blues, and tactile materials like velvet and mohair. By blending these sophisticated elements with practical storage solutions, they create homes that are as functional for a family with young children as they are aesthetically pleasing.
The Iconic “Zippy” Connection
One of the most delightful aspects of Rose’s background is her mother’s contribution to British pop culture. Rose’s mother was a primary designer and creator of Zippy, the loud-mouthed, zip-mouthed puppet from the 1980s children’s show Rainbow. This connection has provided Josh Widdicombe with endless comedic material, as he often jokes about the surreal experience of realizing his mother-in-law is responsible for a character that defined his generation’s childhood.
During an interview, Josh noted that the comparison between him and Zippy is “obvious,” joking that if a Hollywood movie were made about his life, the plot twist of him marrying “Zippy’s human daughter” would be the perfect ending. This heritage highlights the creative pedigree of the Hanson family, where innovation in television has been a multi-generational pursuit. It also adds a layer of “showbiz royalty” to their otherwise grounded family life.
Parenting and the “Parenting Hell” Podcast
Josh and Rose’s domestic life is frequently the subject of the chart-topping podcast “Parenting Hell”. Hosted by Josh and Rob Beckett, the show provides a raw, unfiltered look at the challenges of raising children, with Josh often sharing anecdotes about life with Pearl and Cassius. While Rose remains more private, she has made high-profile appearances on the podcast to provide her “Right of Reply,” offering a wife’s perspective on Josh’s parenting tales.
The couple is praised for their honesty regarding difficult topics, particularly their experience with a miscarriage. Josh’s decision to speak about the “perilous” feeling of a subsequent pregnancy helped thousands of listeners navigate their own grief. By sharing these vulnerable moments, Josh and Rose have moved beyond being just a “celebrity couple” to becoming a source of comfort and relatability for parents across the UK.
Relocation to Exeter and Mullion
In a major lifestyle shift announced in late 2024 and confirmed in January 2026, Josh and Rose decided to leave London for Exeter. Josh cited a desire to return to his roots in the South West, having grown up in Devon. They also maintain their significant investment in Mullion, Cornwall, where they own a renovated property formerly owned by Noel Edmonds. This move represents a commitment to a slower, more nature-oriented upbringing for their two children.
Tips for Following Their Work
- Listen: Tune in to Parenting Hell every Tuesday and Friday for family updates.
- Watch: Look for Rose Hanson’s name in the credits of major UK comedy specials.
- Design: Follow the Penrose Tilbury official website for interior design inspiration.
FAQs
What is Rose Hanson’s job?
Rose is a professional TV producer and an interior designer. She co-runs the studio Penrose Tilbury and has produced shows like Live at the Apollo.
Who are Josh Widdicombe’s children?
He has a daughter named Pearl, born in 2017, and a son named Cassius, born in 2021.
Where did Josh Widdicombe move in 2026?
Josh and his family moved from East London to Exeter to be closer to his family roots in Devon.
How did Josh and Rose meet?
They met in 2013 while both were working in the London television industry.
Is Josh Widdicombe’s wife related to anyone famous?
Yes, her mother created Zippy from the children’s TV show Rainbow.
What is the Penrose House in Cornwall?
It is a six-bedroom Georgian property in Mullion that Rose renovated into a luxury holiday home.
Did Josh Widdicombe go on Strictly?
Josh participated in the Strictly Come Dancing 2024 Christmas Special, partnered with Karen Hauer.
What is “Parenting Hell”?
It is a hit podcast where Josh and Rob Beckett discuss the daily struggles and joys of being a dad.
Does Rose Hanson appear on TV?
No, Rose works entirely behind the scenes as a producer or in her design business.
What style is Rose Hanson’s interior design?
Her style is described as “Parisian flair” mixed with British comfort, featuring earth tones and vintage finds.
Who is Josh Widdicombe’s wife?
Josh Widdicombe is married to Rose Hanson. She is a professional television producer and the co-founder of the interior design company Penrose Tilbury.
When did Josh Widdicombe get married?
Josh and Rose tied the knot in 2019. They had been in a relationship for approximately six years before deciding to marry.
Does Rose Hanson work in television?
Yes, Rose is a successful producer. Her credits include 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, Live at the Apollo, and Would I Lie To You?.
How many children do Josh Widdicombe and Rose Hanson have?
The couple has two children: a daughter named Pearl (born 2017) and a son named Cassius (born 2021).
Who is Rose Hanson’s mother?
Rose’s mother is famous for being the creator of Zippy, the beloved character from the classic children’s television show Rainbow.
Where do Josh Widdicombe and his wife live?
They primarily reside in East London but also own a renovated six-bedroom holiday home in Mullion, Cornwall.
Is Rose Hanson on social media?
While she keeps a low profile personally, she is active on the Instagram account for her business, @penrosetilbury, where she shares interior design projects.
What is Penrose Tilbury?
Penrose Tilbury is an interior design studio co-founded by Rose Hanson that focuses on creating calm, textured, and livable residential spaces.
How did Josh Widdicombe and Rose Hanson meet?
While they haven’t shared the exact “meet-cute” story, they met through their shared work in the London television industry around 2013.
Have Josh and Rose ever worked together?
While they don’t appear on screen together, Rose has produced several comedy shows that feature many of Josh’s close colleagues and friends.
What is the name of Josh Widdicombe’s daughter?
His daughter’s name is Pearl. She was born in October 2017.
What is the name of Josh Widdicombe’s son?
His son’s name is Cassius. He was born in May 2021.
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