John Craven: Age, Wife, Career, and Current Status (2025)

At 85, John Craven is still a familiar face on British television, presenting Countryfile with the same calm authority he brought to Newsround decades ago. While most broadcasters his age have long retired, Craven continues to bring rural stories to millions of viewers each week.

Age: 85 (as of 2025) ·
Career Start: 1960s ·
Notable Shows: Newsround, Countryfile ·
Awards: OBE ·
Marital Status: Married to Marilyn Craven

The table below lays out the core biographical details confirmed by multiple sources.

What is John Craven doing now?

John Craven is still an active broadcaster in 2025, primarily known for his long-running role on Countryfile. He has been presenting the BBC rural affairs programme since 1989, making him one of the longest-serving presenters on British television. According to the BBC, he has been investigating countryside issues for 40 years (BBC (UK public broadcaster)).

Where does John Craven live now?

• Craven lives in the UK, likely in Oxfordshire or the Cotswolds region (based on Countryfile filming locations). His exact address has not been publicly confirmed.
• He has not disclosed any recent house moves, and privacy about his home is consistent with his low-profile personal life.

How is John Craven’s health?

• In a 2025 Oxford Mail interview, Craven said he feels “fortunate to still be working” at 85 (Oxford Mail (regional UK newspaper)).
• No serious health issues have been reported, and he continues to present Countryfile regularly.

The pattern: Craven’s active schedule suggests he remains in good health, but he has not given detailed medical updates.

How many times has John Craven been married?

John Craven has been married once, to Marilyn Craven. The couple have maintained a private marriage for many decades, with Marilyn occasionally mentioned in media but rarely in the public eye.

Who is John Craven’s wife?

• John Craven’s wife is Marilyn Craven. According to Wikipedia, the couple are still together (Wikipedia (online encyclopedia)).
• Marilyn has been described as a supportive partner through Craven’s long career, though she largely avoids the spotlight.

Has John Craven got kids?

• Yes, John Craven has two children: a daughter and a son. Their names and careers are not publicly available, consistent with the family’s preference for privacy.

Why this matters: Craven’s stable family background contrasts with many public figures, reinforcing his reputation as a private, grounded personality.

How old is John Craven now?

John Craven was born on 16 August 1940, making him 85 years old as of 2025. His birth date is confirmed by multiple sources, including the BBC and the British Film Institute (BBC).

How tall is John Craven?

• John Craven’s height is estimated at around 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm). This figure is not officially recorded and comes from secondary sources.
• The lack of an official measurement places this in the “unclear” category.

The catch: While his age is rock-solid, his height remains an educated guess.

Did John Craven ever present Blue Peter?

No, John Craven never presented Blue Peter. His legacy is tied to Newsround (which he presented from 1972 to 1989) and Countryfile. He did, however, become a household name through his appearances on Multi-Coloured Swap Shop in the late 1970s (BFI Screenonline (British Film Institute)).

Did John Craven serve in the military?

• There is no evidence that John Craven served in the military. His career path went straight from local newspapers (Harrogate Advertiser) to BBC Radio and television in the 1960s (BFI Screenonline).

The trade-off: Craven’s path was journalism, not military service — a clear distinction from some broadcasters of his generation.

Where does John Craven live now?

John Craven is believed to live in the UK, most likely in Oxfordshire or the Cotswolds, regions where Countryfile often films. He has never publicly disclosed a specific address, maintaining his privacy. As of 2025, no media reports have pinpointed his exact residence.

John Craven’s Career Timeline

• 1940 — Born in Leeds, England (BBC)
• 1960s — Began journalism at the Harrogate Advertiser and later BBC Radio Newcastle (BFI Screenonline)
• 1972 — Started presenting Newsround (BBC)
• 1989 — Joined Countryfile as presenter (BBC)
• 2000s — Awarded OBE (BBC)
• 2025 — Still presenting Countryfile at age 85

Clarity check: what we know vs. what’s uncertain

“I feel fortunate to still be working.”

John Craven, speaking to the Oxford Mail (2025)

“Newsround was the first BBC news programme specially made for children — it gave Craven his big break.”

BBC (UK public broadcaster) on the programme’s history

For John Craven, the choice to stay active in broadcasting at 85 is a personal one — but the consequence for viewers is clear: they get a presenter who has lived the rural stories he tells, not just read a script. Whether he continues for another year or five, his legacy is already secure as one of Britain’s most admired television faces.

Related reading: All Her Fault Episodes · Waitrose Food to Order

Frequently asked questions