Ant Anstead: From Car Expert to TV Star and Entrepreneur

Ant Anstead has become a familiar name to fans of car restoration, television, and design. Known for his charismatic on-screen presence and deep expertise in all things automotive, Anstead has built an impressive career in both the UK and the US. Whether he’s restoring classic cars, creating innovative custom builds, or presenting television shows, Anstead’s passion and talent shine through. But his journey to fame wasn’t a straightforward one—he transitioned from police officer to TV star, blending his love for craftsmanship and mechanics with his on-screen personality. This article delves into Ant Anstead‘s journey from car enthusiast to household name, exploring his career, personal life, and business ventures.

Ant Anstead Profile

Early Life and Career Path: From Police Officer to Car Designer

Ant Anstead was born on March 28, 1979, in Plymouth, Devon, England, but he grew up in the nearby town of Hertfordshire. Anstead attended Richard Hale School, followed by Haileybury School, where he developed an early interest in engineering and design. However, his initial career path didn’t lead him directly into the automotive world; instead, he chose to become a police officer, serving with the Hertfordshire Constabulary.

During his years in the police force, Anstead gained accolades for his work, even being commended twice for acts of bravery. He was part of the Tactical Firearms Unit, an elite section of the force, and worked on complex cases. Despite his success, Anstead eventually decided to leave the police service to pursue his true passion—automotive design and restoration. This major career shift marked the beginning of Anstead’s journey in the automotive industry, where he would soon make a name for himself.

Building a Name in the Automotive World

Leaving the stability of a police career behind, Anstead took a leap of faith to follow his passion for cars. He started his own business restoring and building custom cars, focusing on vintage vehicles and classic models. Anstead’s technical skills, coupled with his attention to detail and innovative designs, quickly earned him a reputation within the automotive community. He founded Dowsett Classic Cars, a company that specialized in handcrafted cars and bespoke automotive projects, where he was able to showcase his creativity and craftsmanship.

One of Anstead’s notable projects was the “Ant Anstead Type 1,” a custom-built vehicle that reflected his unique approach to car design. His work at Dowsett Classic Cars solidified his expertise in the field and set him on a path toward media opportunities. As his reputation grew, so did his clientele, including car collectors and enthusiasts who admired his dedication to quality and originality.

Breaking into Television: For the Love of Cars

Ant Anstead’s first major break in television came with the British show For the Love of Cars, which aired in 2014. Co-hosted by actor and car enthusiast Philip Glenister, the show focused on the restoration of classic British cars. Each episode featured a different iconic vehicle, and Anstead’s job was to bring these old, sometimes forgotten, cars back to life. His warmth, charisma, and obvious passion for his work made him a fan favorite, and the show was a hit among viewers who loved seeing the transformation of classic vehicles.

For the Love of Cars was more than just a restoration show—it aimed to tell the story behind each vehicle, highlighting its cultural and historical significance. Anstead’s role went beyond being a mechanic; he became an on-screen personality, connecting with audiences through his enthusiasm and deep knowledge of automotive history. The success of this show opened doors for Anstead, leading to more opportunities in television.

Global Recognition with Wheeler Dealers

In 2017, Ant Anstead joined the popular car restoration show Wheeler Dealers, replacing Edd China as the show’s mechanic and co-host alongside Mike Brewer. Wheeler Dealers was already well-established, known for taking used and often rundown cars, restoring them, and selling them for a profit. Anstead stepped into a role with big shoes to fill, but he quickly won over audiences with his expertise and engaging personality.

On Wheeler Dealers, Anstead brought a fresh perspective to the series. He not only tackled the mechanics of each car but also added an educational element, explaining the “how” and “why” behind each restoration decision. His approach was both hands-on and analytical, allowing viewers to learn about automotive engineering while watching each transformation. His chemistry with Brewer was evident, and together they continued the show’s legacy, making it one of the most popular automotive programs worldwide.

Anstead’s time on Wheeler Dealers also exposed him to an international audience, expanding his fanbase and cementing his status as a prominent figure in the automotive media industry. His tenure on the show lasted until 2020, when he announced his departure to pursue other projects and focus on personal endeavors.

Launching Ant Anstead Master Mechanic and Radford Motors

Following his departure from Wheeler Dealers, Anstead launched his own show, Ant Anstead Master Mechanic, where he took on the ambitious project of building an Alfa Romeo 158 from scratch. The show provided a deeper look into his skills as a builder and designer, focusing on the intricacies of building a car without the high-tech tools often available in modern garages. Ant Anstead Master Mechanic showcased Anstead’s dedication to craftsmanship and was a testament to his ability to create complex builds from the ground up.

In addition to his television projects, Anstead co-founded Radford Motors in 2021, alongside former Formula 1 World Champion Jenson Button. Radford Motors is a revival of the historic British coachbuilding company, with a focus on creating bespoke, luxury vehicles that combine modern performance with classic design. Their first project, the Radford Lotus Type 62-2, received widespread acclaim for its sleek design and powerful performance. Radford Motors represents Anstead’s vision for bringing classic car design into the modern era, allowing car enthusiasts to own a unique piece of automotive art.

Personal Life: Relationships and Family

Ant Anstead’s personal life has often attracted public attention, especially after his high-profile relationship and subsequent marriage to HGTV star Christina Haack. The couple met in 2017 and quickly became one of Hollywood’s most talked-about duos. They married in 2018 and welcomed their son, Hudson, in 2019. However, the marriage faced challenges, and in 2020, the couple announced their separation, finalizing their divorce in 2021. Despite the end of their relationship, Anstead and Haack have publicly expressed a commitment to co-parenting their son Hudson.

After his split from Christina Haack, Anstead made headlines again in 2021 when he began dating Academy Award-winning actress Renée Zellweger. The couple met on the set of his show Celebrity IOU Joyride, where Zellweger appeared as a guest star. Their relationship has attracted media attention, and fans have shown interest in seeing how the couple balances their personal and professional lives.

Ant Anstead’s Influence on the Automotive World and Beyond

Anstead’s impact on the automotive world goes beyond his television roles. Through his various projects, including Radford Motors, Dowsett Classic Cars, and his own shows, Anstead has brought renewed interest in classic cars and restoration work. His approach to car building emphasizes craftsmanship, quality, and respect for automotive history, appealing to both seasoned car enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

By combining his love for design with his skills as a presenter, Anstead has effectively bridged the gap between automotive engineering and entertainment, making car restoration accessible and engaging for a wide audience. His educational approach on television allows viewers to appreciate the artistry involved in car building, while his ventures in the automotive business contribute to preserving and reviving classic car culture.

Looking to the Future: What’s Next for Ant Anstead?

Ant Anstead shows no signs of slowing down. With Radford Motors gearing up for more projects and his ongoing work in television, Anstead continues to make a mark on the automotive industry. In addition to his work with Radford, he is reportedly working on new television concepts that will allow him to showcase his expertise and passion for cars in innovative ways. His vision for Radford Motors includes expanding its presence globally, with plans to release more limited-edition vehicles that blend timeless design with cutting-edge technology.

As he builds his career further, Anstead remains dedicated to inspiring others, particularly young people, to pursue careers in craftsmanship, engineering, and design. Through his various platforms, he emphasizes the importance of hands-on skills, creativity, and perseverance—qualities that have driven his own journey from police officer to TV star and successful entrepreneur.

Conclusion

Ant Anstead has crafted a career that combines his love for cars, his on-screen charisma, and his business acumen. From his early days in the police force to becoming a globally recognized TV star and entrepreneur, Anstead’s journey is a testament to following one’s passion and taking risks. His work on shows like For the Love of Cars and Wheeler Dealers brought him into the public eye, while his business ventures like Radford Motors have allowed him to innovate within the automotive industry.

Anstead’s influence extends beyond his restoration work; he is a role model for aspiring car enthusiasts and creators, showing that success can come from a blend of talent, hard work, and genuine passion. Whether he’s building a custom car from scratch, collaborating with industry legends, or exploring new TV concepts, Ant Anstead’s legacy in the automotive world is only just beginning.