Amanda Platell: A Comprehensive Look at the Journalist’s Life, Career, Origins, and Influence
Who Is Amanda Platell?
Amanda Platell is a prominent Australian-born journalist, political communicator, columnist, and broadcaster who has built a significant profile in the United Kingdom over several decades. Known for her sharp commentary and uncompromising style, she has become one of the most recognisable voices in British print media. With a long-standing position at the Daily Mail, major editorial roles in national newspapers, and a period working at the forefront of British politics, Amanda Platell continues to shape public conversation through her writing and media appearances.
Amanda Platell Origin and Early Life
Amanda Jane Platell was born on 12 November 1957 in Perth, Western Australia, making her 68 years old. Her upbringing in Australia played a crucial role in shaping her early interest in language, politics, and journalism. Coming from a family with a strong media influence—her father worked as a journalist—Platell developed a curiosity for newsrooms and storytelling from a young age.
Her academic background is equally notable. She studied Politics and Philosophy at the University of Western Australia, laying a foundation for her later political and editorial work. Though she eventually moved to the UK, her Australian roots remain a key part of her identity.
Amanda Platell’s Move to the UK
In 1985, Amanda Platell moved from Australia to London, a decision that transformed her professional life. She began freelancing for major newspapers, gradually progressing into senior editorial roles. Her understanding of political structures, combined with her forthright communication style, helped her quickly rise within British media circles.
Amanda Platell Husband and Personal Life
Amanda Platell was once married to John Chenery, but the marriage eventually ended in divorce. She has spoken publicly about her personal challenges, including the fact that medical reasons prevented her from having children. Despite this, she has embraced a fulfilling life in journalism and public affairs. She has lived for many years in London, often describing her home life with her beloved pets.
Amanda Platell Daily Mail Career
One of the most defining aspects of her career is her long-standing role at the Daily Mail. Amanda Platell joined the newspaper as a columnist in 2002 and continues to write opinion pieces on politics, society, celebrity culture, and current affairs. Her columns are known for their frank tone, sharp critique, and conservative-leaning perspectives.
Her work for the Daily Mail has significantly shaped public debate in the UK. Whether writing about political scandals, social behaviours, royal family dynamics, or media trends, her commentary often triggers national conversation. Her Saturday column in particular has become widely read and frequently shared.
Amanda Platell’s Role in British Politics
Before becoming a familiar figure in journalism, Amanda Platell stepped directly into the political arena. From 1999 to 2001, she served as Press Secretary and Director of Communications to William Hague, who was then leader of the British Conservative Party.
Her role placed her at the centre of political messaging, crisis communication, and party strategy. It also strengthened her public profile and deepened her understanding of the dynamics between media and politics—knowledge she later brought back into journalism with considerable impact.
Editorial Career Before the Daily Mail
Before joining the Daily Mail, Amanda Platell had an extensive career in British newspapers. Her positions included:
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Deputy Editor at Today
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Managing Editor at Mirror Group Newspapers
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Marketing Director and later Managing Director at The Independent
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Acting Editor of the Sunday Mirror
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Acting Editor of the Sunday Express
These roles not only demonstrate her editorial skills but also her ability to navigate high-pressure environments and manage large media organisations. Her experience across multiple national outlets has helped shape her unique journalistic viewpoint.
Amanda Platell’s Writing Style and Influence
Amanda Platell’s writing style is direct, unapologetic, and rooted in strong personal opinion. Her readership appreciates her willingness to address controversial topics without hesitation. At the same time, her commentary often sparks debate and occasionally public backlash—something she has acknowledged as part of being a columnist in a highly polarised media landscape.
Her influence extends beyond print media. Over the years, she has appeared regularly on television programmes, taking part in political discussions, reviewing newspaper headlines, and offering commentary on current affairs.
Amanda Platell and Broadcasting
Apart from her newspaper career, Amanda Platell has appeared on:
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BBC news programmes
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Sky News
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ITV political shows
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Channel 4 (co-presenting Morgan & Platell with Piers Morgan)
Her broadcast presence further solidified her standing as a public commentator.
Amanda Platell Age and Public Perception
At 68 years old, Amanda Platell remains active in journalism and continues to contribute to national conversations. Her decades of experience give her commentary a sense of authority, even as her style remains bold and contemporary.
Public perception of her varies, as is common with opinion writers. Some readers admire her honesty and clarity, while others criticise her forthright methods. Regardless, her name remains firmly established within British media.
Controversies and Criticism
Like many outspoken columnists, Platell has encountered controversy. Some of her columns have led to disputes, complaints, and public debate. She has been involved in high-profile disputes with political figures, celebrities, and activists. These moments have contributed to her reputation as a fearless commentator who is unafraid to confront sensitive issues.
Amanda Platell as an Author
Beyond journalism, Amanda Platell is also an author. She wrote Scandal, a novel that reflects her understanding of media, politics, and the complexities of public life. The book showcases her ability to translate real-world experience into compelling storytelling.
Amanda Platell’s Lasting Impact
Amanda Platell’s impact on British journalism is significant. She represents a style of journalism that prioritises opinion, analysis, and commentary over straightforward reporting. Her work has shaped political narratives, influenced public opinion, and sparked national conversations.
Her career—spanning politics, media, writing, and television—illustrates the breadth of her influence and the depth of her experience.
Conclusion: Amanda Platell’s Place in Modern Media
Amanda Platell remains a powerful figure in the UK media landscape. Her origins in Australia, her rise through British journalism, her experience at the heart of political communication, and her long-standing role at the Daily Mail all contribute to her lasting relevance. Her personal story, including her marriage and subsequent divorce, her challenges, and her professional achievements, gives depth to her public persona.
Whether admired or criticised, Amanda Platell continues to be a journalist whose words shape discussion and whose presence remains influential across the British press.
