The world of British television has lost one of its most unforgettable personalities. For many Australians, she was more than just a familiar face on television—she was a force of nature.
This straight-talking, no-nonsense icon made us laugh, gasp, and, occasionally, reach for the cleaning products.
Kim Woodburn passed away at the age of 83 after a short illness. She first burst onto our screens in the early 2000s as the co-host of Channel 4’s How Clean Is Your House?, which quickly became a cult favourite in the United Kingdom (UK) and Australia.
Alongside her ‘partner-in-grime’ Aggie MacKenzie, Woodburn tackled the nation’s dirtiest homes with tough love, practical advice, and her trademark wit.
Who could forget her pearls, her perfectly coiffed hair, and her ability to shame even the most stubborn stains into submission?
But Woodburn’s career didn’t stop cleaning up other people’s messes. She became a reality TV staple, appearing on I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! in 2009, where she charmed and occasionally scandalised viewers with her candid opinions and indomitable spirit.
In 2017, she entered the Celebrity Big Brother house, where her fiery personality and sharp tongue made her a fan favourite and a tabloid sensation.
Woodburn was also a regular guest on popular UK talk shows such as Loose Women and This Morning, where her unfiltered commentary and larger-than-life presence made her a must-watch.
Whether she offered cleaning tips or advice on life, love, and everything in between, Woodburn always spoke her mind—and audiences loved her for it.
Her representative shared the sad news in a statement: ‘It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved Kim Woodburn passed away yesterday following a short illness. Kim was an incredibly kind, caring, charismatic and strong person.’
‘Her husband Peter is heartbroken at the loss of his soulmate. We are so proud of the amazing things Kim achieved in her life and career. We kindly ask that Kim’s husband and close friends are given the time and privacy they need to grieve. We will not be releasing any further details.’
Tributes have poured in from fans and fellow celebrities alike. Journalist Dan Wootton described her as ‘gorgeous, hilarious and truly outrageous’, adding, ‘No one burst the bubble of prissy celebrities in such glorious fashion. Forever the queen of clean!’
Social media has been awash with messages from devastated fans, many calling her an ‘absolute icon of reality TV’. They praised her for reaching her prime later in life—a reminder that it’s never too late to make your mark.
Woodburn’s passing comes just weeks after she cancelled work commitments due to health concerns.
She had been delighting her loyal followers with personal video greetings and messages, but earlier this month, she announced she needed to take a break to focus on her health.
Her final video, posted on Valentine’s Day, was classic Woodburn: cheerful, warm, and full of love for her fans.
Beyond the glitz and glamour of television, Woodburn’s story is one of resilience and reinvention.
She didn’t find fame until her sixties, proving that life’s most exciting chapters can begin at any age. Her candid memoir, Unbeaten, revealed a life marked by hardship and adversity, but also by an unbreakable spirit and a refusal to be defined by her past.
As we say goodbye to Woodburn, we invite you to share your memories and tributes in the comments below.
Did you have a favourite Woodburn moment? Did her cleaning tips ever save the day in your own home? Let’s celebrate the life of a genuine original who proved that a bit of elbow grease, a sharp tongue, and a kind heart can take you anywhere.
Rest in peace, Woodburn. The world is a little less sparkling without you.
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