Peter James Wicks, born on November 1, 1988, in Harlow, Essex, England, is a prominent English television personality. He gained widespread recognition as a cast member of the ITVBe reality series “The Only Way Is Essex” (TOWIE), where he appeared from 2015 to 2022. Beyond TOWIE, Pete has showcased his versatility by participating in various reality TV shows, including “Celebrity Island with Bear Grylls,” “Celebs Go Dating,” and “Strictly Come Dancing.” His charismatic presence and distinctive style have made him a notable figure in British entertainment.
Early Life and Education
Pete Wicks was born in Harlow, Essex, England. His parents separated when he was 11 years old, leading to his father’s departure and subsequent estrangement. Following the divorce, Pete’s mother, Tracy, faced significant challenges, including a suicide attempt when Pete was just 12 years old. This traumatic event had a profound impact on him, instilling a sense of responsibility from a young age. He took on the role of supporting his mother both emotionally and financially, even working as a paperboy to contribute to their household. Despite these hardships, Pete maintained a close bond with his grandmother, Doreen, who played a pivotal role in his upbringing. Her passing in 2022 deeply affected him, leading to a period of intense grief
Personal Life
Throughout his life, Pete has been open about his struggles with mental health, particularly stemming from his challenging childhood experiences. The trauma of his mother’s suicide attempt and his father’s absence contributed to feelings of inadequacy and difficulties in forming lasting relationships. Despite his public persona, Pete has expressed feelings of loneliness and a fear of dying alone. He has sought therapy to address these issues and has been candid about his journey towards mental well-being. His close friendship with fellow television personality Sam Thompson has been a source of support, providing him with a sense of stability and camaraderie.
Family
Pete’s family dynamics have been complex. His parents’ divorce led to a strained relationship with his father, with whom he has had little contact since the separation. In contrast, his relationship with his mother, Tracy, has been one of deep mutual support.
After her suicide attempt, Pete became a primary source of emotional and financial support for her. His grandmother, Doreen, was another significant figure in his life, providing guidance and care during his formative years. Her death in 2022 was a profound loss for Pete, leading him to reflect on the importance of family and the impact of his upbringing on his adult life.
Detailed Bio Table
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Peter James Wicks |
Date of Birth | November 1, 1988 |
Place of Birth | Harlow, Essex, England |
Height | Approximately 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) |
Parents | Mother: Tracy Wicks; Father: Information not publicly available |
Net Worth (2024) | Estimated at $6 million |
Career
Pete Wicks began his television career in 2015 when he joined the cast of “The Only Way Is Essex” (TOWIE) during its fifteenth series. His charismatic presence and distinctive style quickly made him a fan favorite, and he remained a central figure on the show until 2022. During his time on TOWIE, Pete was involved in several high-profile relationships, most notably with Megan McKenna, which were prominently featured on the show.
Beyond TOWIE, Pete expanded his television repertoire by participating in various reality TV shows. In 2018, he appeared on “Celebrity Island with Bear Grylls,” where he faced the challenges of survival in a remote environment. The following year, he joined the cast of “Celebs Go Dating,” seeking to find love under the guidance of dating experts. He returned to the show in subsequent series, including a virtual edition during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, Pete showcased his culinary skills on “Celebrity MasterChef,” further demonstrating his versatility as a television personality.
In 2021, Pete participated in “The Celebrity Circle” alongside his close friend Sam Thompson. The duo catfished as Countdown presenter Rachel Riley and managed to reach the finals, finishing as runners-up. Their camaraderie and humorous interactions were well-received by audiences. Pete also took on the grueling challenges of “Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins” in 2022 but had to withdraw due to a medical injury.
In 2024, Pete joined the cast of “Strictly Come Dancing,” partnered with professional dancer Jowita PrzystaĆ. Despite not being a trained dancer, Pete’s dedication and charm led them to the semi-finals, showcasing his determination and ability to connect with audiences. Following this, in 2025, he presented the docuseries “For Dogs’ Sake” on U&W, filmed at the Dogs Trust rehoming centre in Basildon. This project highlighted his passion for animal welfare and allowed viewers to see a more personal side of him.
Throughout his career, Pete has also ventured into podcasting, co-hosting “Staying Relevant” with Sam Thompson since 2022. The podcast offers insights into their lives and the entertainment industry, further cementing their status as prominent figures in British popular culture.
In addition to his television and podcasting endeavors, Pete has authored books, including “Never Enough: My Words Unfiltered,” where he delves into his personal experiences, struggles, and reflections on life. This literary venture provides fans with a deeper understanding of the man behind the public persona.
Pete Wicks’s journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a recognized television personality is a testament to his resilience and adaptability. His openness about personal struggles, combined with his diverse career pursuits, has endeared him to many and established him as a multifaceted figure in the entertainment industry.
Latest News
As of February 5, 2025, Pete Wicks has been making headlines due to his absence from the 2025 Strictly Come Dancing live tour. Despite his successful stint on the show, where he reached the semi-finals with partner Jowita PrzystaĆ, Pete is unable to participate in the tour due to prior work and filming commitments. Expressing his disappointment, he stated that he is “gutted” about missing the opportunity to perform live across the country. The tour, set to commence on January 17 in Birmingham and conclude on February 9 at London’s O2 Arena, features a lineup of popular contestants from the series. Fans have expressed their regret over Pete’s absence, noting his popularity and the positive reception he received during the competition.
Social Media Accounts Table
Platform | Username | Official Link |
---|---|---|
@p_wicks01 | Instagram Profile | |
@P_Wicks01 | Twitter Profile | |
TikTok | @stayingrelevantpodcast | TikTok Profile |
Height and Physical Appearance
Standing at approximately 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm), Pete Wicks is easily recognizable by his long, flowing hair and numerous tattoos, which have become his signature look. His distinct style, often featuring a blend of contemporary fashion with a rugged edge, has garnered attention and admiration from fans and fashion enthusiasts alike. Pete’s piercing blue eyes and well-groomed beard further complement his striking appearance, making him a standout figure in the public eye.
Net Worth as of 2024
By 2024, Pete Wicks’s net worth was estimated to be around $6 million. His wealth primarily stems from his extensive career in reality television, brand endorsements, and ventures in property development. Before his rise to fame on television, Pete was involved in the real estate industry, which contributed significantly to his financial foundation. His continued presence on various TV shows, coupled with his business acumen, has solidified his status as a successful entrepreneur and television personality.