By Dan Laurie
Copyright irishmirror
Giles Wood and his wife Mary Killen have emerged as Gogglebox favourites since joining the Channel 4 programme’s lineup in 2015.
The pair maintain professional lives beyond the entertainment sphere, with Giles having stepped back from work by the tender age of 21, not long after encountering Mary.
In one memorable episode of the beloved series, Giles remarked: “Just as I’m starting to enjoy my retirement” whilst watching a documentary about the Coronavirus pandemic.
Mary swiftly retorted: “What retirement? You haven’t worked first. You retired at 21, so now you can start working – do it in reverse.”
Giles possesses considerable artistic talent and initially encountered Mary during their studies at Wimbledon Art School, reports the Manchester Evening News.
His website reveals that the television personality honed his skills under British painter and sculptor Maggi Hambling before developing his signature landscape work.
The site indicates he focuses on interior scenes, relishing “painting the clutter of people’s lives”.
Consequently, Giles has received commissions from notable figures including Henry Keswick, Robert Harris, Erskine Guinness, Robert Hiscox and Richard Ingrams.
On his webpage, Giles explains: “I like the contemplative aspect – sitting for several days in a room, watching the light change.
“There are as many changes as with a landscape. I always work in oils as they give more depth. The finished painting should offer an insight into the painter as well as the subject.”
Giles has been using his Instagram account, boasting 18.5k followers, to showcase his remarkable artwork.
When he’s not filming for Gogglebox or creating stunning oil paintings, Giles’ Instagram bio reveals that he also pens articles for The Oldie, a monthly magazine.
Mary initially crossed paths with Giles while she was working as a model, but eventually transitioned into journalism, writing for high-profile publications such as Tatler.
Her career trajectory differs from Giles’, and she is most recognised for her role as an agony aunt at The Spectator.
In addition to her column, the Gogglebox star has authored several books and frequently contributes to a podcast series named Giles and Mary’s Oldie Newsround for The Oldie magazine.
Mary once fronted a 1970s advertising campaign for Heinz Soup and together with Giles, they have two children.
Gogglebox airs Fridays on Channel 4 at 9pm
