Simon Thomas: The Inspiring Journey of a Broadcaster, Author, and Advocate
Simon Thomas is a name that resonates across British broadcasting, sports media, mental-health advocacy, and children’s television. With more than two decades of experience in front of the camera, he has grown from a beloved Blue Peter presenter into the influential host of Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday. Alongside his success, Simon Thomas’ life has also been shaped by profound personal experiences, inspiring him to use his platform for compassion, awareness, and positive change.
Simon Thomas Age and Early Life
Simon Thomas was born on 26 January 1973 in Norfolk, United Kingdom, which makes him 52 years old. He grew up in a loving and supportive family with his parents, Andrew Thomas and Gill Thomas, and from a young age showed strong interests in sport, storytelling, and communication—skills that would later become central to his broadcasting career.
Simon Thomas’ Education
Simon’s academic journey reflects discipline and dedication. He attended St John’s School Leatherhead from 1986 to 1991, a period that shaped his confidence and communication skills. He then pursued higher education at the University of Birmingham, graduating in 1995 with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in History. This academic background strengthened his storytelling ability and cultivated a deep understanding of people, society, and events—an asset in his broadcasting career.
Simon Thomas’ Early Career and Rise to Blue Peter
Simon Thomas and Blue Peter
One of the defining milestones in his career was becoming Blue Peter presenter number 27 in January 1999. He remained on the iconic BBC children’s show until April 2005, a six-year period that made him a household name across the country.
What Simon Thomas Did on Blue Peter
During his time on the show, Simon participated in:
Adventure challenges
Charity projects
Sporting features
Travel and cultural episodes
Live studio presenting
Appearances with well-known personalities such as Mr Bean
He worked alongside presenters such as Konnie Huq, Matt Baker, Liz Barker, Katy Hill, Stuart Miles, and Zoe Salmon. Simon Thomas’ Blue Peter years became known for his enthusiasm, warm personality, and ability to connect with younger audiences.
Transition to Sky Sports and Premier League Broadcasting
Simon Thomas Sky Sports Career
Leaving Blue Peter in 2005 marked a new chapter. Simon joined Sky Sports, where he spent over 12 years as a presenter. His career highlights during this period include:
Football Coverage
Premier League (2016–2017)
Football League (2010–2016)
EFL Cup (2014–2016)
Over 500 live football matches presented
Sky Sports News (2005–2012)
Major Sports Assignments
Cricket AM (2006–2008)
Mosconi Cup, Las Vegas (2007)
World Cup Report, South Africa (2010)
Ryder Cup Report (Celtic Manor, 2010)
Simon’s calm professionalism, empathy, and sharp presentation made him a respected figure across British sports broadcasting.
Simon Thomas: Soccer Saturday Presenter
In 2023, Simon took on one of the most high-profile roles in UK sports broadcasting—hosting Soccer Saturday on Sky Sports.
As the face of a programme with a massive weekly audience, Simon brings energy, authority, and credibility to the show. His long history in football presentation makes him a natural fit for the role.
Simon Thomas and Prime Video
Simon also became a Premier League presenter for Prime Video, hosting major matches and special features. His appearances for Prime Video—such as coverage of Manchester United vs Arsenal—further reinforced his standing as one of the nation’s top football presenters.
Personal Life, Family, and Relationships
Simon Thomas’ Wife
Simon Thomas’ personal life has been marked by love, loss, and hope.
First Wife: Gemma Thomas
Simon married Gemma Thomas in 2005. Together they had one son, Ethan Thomas. Tragically, Gemma passed away in 2017 due to acute blood cancer, only days after falling ill. Her sudden death deeply affected Simon, inspiring him to become a powerful advocate for grief awareness and blood cancer prevention.
Simon Thomas’ New Wife: Derrina Jebb
In 2021, Simon remarried. His new wife, Derrina Jebb, has been a source of joy and stability. Together they have welcomed more children, Talitha Thomas and Theo Benjamin Thomas, expanding their family with love and optimism.
Simon Thomas’ Children
Simon is a devoted father to:
Ethan Thomas
Talitha Thomas
Theo Benjamin Thomas
He often shares heartfelt moments with his children, reflecting his dedication to fatherhood and family values.
Simon Thomas’ Involvement With The Hippodrome
Many people search for Simon Thomas Hippodrome, and it refers to his family’s well-known involvement in the entertainment business. The Hippodrome Casino in London has long been connected to the Thomas family through Simon’s father. While Simon himself is not a casino operator, the connection is part of his broader family history.
Simon Thomas as an Author
Love Interrupted
In 2019, Simon published his emotional and widely praised book Love Interrupted. The book recounts:
The loss of his wife Gemma
The experience of traumatic grief
Raising their son Ethan
Rediscovering hope and healing
The book received praise from public figures like Bear Grylls and Fearne Cotton, and was later released in a revised edition.
Simon Thomas’ Public Speaking and Advocacy
Simon’s personal tragedy led to a new role as an advocate for mental health and grief awareness.
Key Topics He Speaks On
Mental health
Grief and loss
Child bereavement
Resilience
Hope after trauma
He has spoken for numerous organisations including:
Government Cabinet Office
Zurich
Morgan Stanley
Linklaters LLP
Unilever
Women’s Institute
Nomad Foods
BHP Chartered Accountants
Simon Thomas as President of Blood Cancer UK
Simon’s commitment to raising awareness of blood cancer is evident in his long-standing role as President of Blood Cancer UK. He has taken part in numerous fundraising events, campaigns, and awareness initiatives, particularly during Blood Cancer Awareness Month.
Simon Thomas on Instagram and Social Media
Simon Thomas Instagram
Simon’s Instagram account @simonthomastv has more than 119,000 followers. His posts often include:
Family moments
Inspirational messages
Mental health reflections
Behind-the-scenes content from Sky Sports
Personal celebrations and milestone photos
His social media presence demonstrates authenticity, warmth, and positivity.
Physical Profile
Age: 52 years
Height: 1.85 m
Born: 26 January 1973, Norfolk
Parents: Andrew and Gill Thomas
His approachable personality and relatable family-focused life contribute to his strong connection with the public.
TV Shows With Simon Thomas
Major Television Programmes
Blue Peter (BBC)
Sky Sports News
Premier League Live (Sky Sports & Prime Video)
Soccer Saturday (Sky Sports)
Cricket AM
This Morning (ITV) – feature presenter
Morning Live (BBC One) – special films
Life, Interrupted Podcast (Global)
Career Overview of Simon Thomas
Key Achievements
Over 20 years of broadcasting
More than 500 live football matches presented
Host of one of the UK’s most iconic sports shows
Successful author
Influential speaker
Charity leader and mental-health advocate
Why Simon Thomas Continues to Inspire
Simon Thomas’ journey embodies resilience, compassion, professionalism, and family values. From Blue Peter to Soccer Saturday, from tragedy to renewed hope, he has shown the power of perseverance and authenticity.
Conclusion
Simon Thomas stands as one of the most respected figures in British broadcasting. His career across Blue Peter, Sky Sports, Prime Video, and major national shows reveals his versatility and enduring public appeal. Beyond television, his personal journey—from profound loss to rebuilding life with courage—has made him a powerful voice for mental health and grief awareness.
With a growing family, a thriving broadcasting career, and a commitment to helping others, Simon Thomas continues to inspire people across the UK. His life story is a blend of professional excellence, personal resilience, and genuine humanity—qualities that make him not only a celebrated presenter but also a deeply admired individual.
