Grand Designs star says 'my best option' as he shares financial woes over Channel 4 contract

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

Kevin McCloud, the face of Grand Designs since its inception in the 1990s, has candidly spoken about the financial implications of his Channel 4 contract.

The Bedfordshire-born designer and presenter acknowledged that he's been "very lucky" to have sustained a lengthy career on the beloved show.

As Kevin, aged 65, nears retirement, he disclosed that his contractual financial circumstances necessitate a "reasonable and astute" approach to his future.

Speaking to the i, he expressed gratitude for his 25-year television tenure but noted the absence of a pension due to his freelance status, saying: "But it doesn't come with a pension (as he works freelance), so you've got to be very reasonable and astute: much as I might enjoy the creations the Grand Designs contributors pursue, my best option is always to enjoy them vicariously rather than imitate." He further explained his financial philosophy, distinguishing his personal situation from that of the Grand Designs participants: "Financially, I decided a long time ago that I wouldn't confuse my own circumstances with those of the Grand Designs contributors.