What REALLY Happened to John Noakes After He Quit Blue Peter

Did you know that John Noakes once climbed Nelson’s Column without any safety equipment, facing a breathtaking 52-meter drop? Or that he survived a devastating hurricane while attempting to sail across the Atlantic? These are just glimpses into the extraordinary life of Blue Peter’s longest-serving presenter, a man who became synonymous with adventure and daring. For 12 unforgettable years, Noakes thrilled audiences with his fearless stunts and charming personality. But when he left the iconic children’s show in 1978, a new chapter of his life began—one filled with reinvention, personal trials, and a quest to find peace away from the limelight.

▬Contents of this video▬
00:00 - Intro
01:03 - The Bitter Departure
04:16 - Adventures and Near-Disasters
06:16 - Reinvention in Majorca
08:33 - The Final Chapter
09:16 - Outro

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Noakes’s post-Blue Peter years were shaped by remarkable highs and devastating lows. His departure from the show was anything but smooth, marked by public disputes over his treatment and a painful separation from his beloved dog, Shep. Determined to carve a new path, Noakes embarked on a series of daring adventures, including a harrowing sailing expedition to the Caribbean with his wife, Vicky. When their boat was struck by a 60-foot wave in a hurricane, the couple narrowly escaped with their lives, rescued by a passing tanker. Undeterred, they set sail again in 1984, eventually settling in Majorca—a place that became a sanctuary for the former action man.

In Majorca, Noakes embraced a quieter life, channeling his creativity into painting watercolors and running a boat rental business. His art, inspired by the island’s serene landscapes, brought him personal satisfaction, while his work as a language tutor showcased a more reflective and studious side. Away from the public eye, he found a sense of fulfillment that eluded him during his television career.

Despite his successes, Noakes faced significant challenges, including a public battle with Alzheimer’s disease in his later years. Yet his legacy as a trailblazer remains undiminished. His stunts, humor, and genuine love for life continue to inspire generations who grew up watching his fearless antics.

John Noakes’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and the enduring appeal of a man who dared to live life on his own terms. Rediscover the man behind the catchphrase “Get down, Shep!” and see why his legacy endures as one of British television’s most iconic figures.

What REALLY Happened to John Noakes After He Quit Blue Peter