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Anthea Bernice Redfern is a British former television host and personality best known for her role on the BBC’s iconic game show The Generation Game during the 1970s.
Her work on British television helped define an era of entertainment, and her personal and professional life continues to be of interest to audiences in the UK and beyond.
Where Did Anthea Redfern Begin Her Life and Career?
Anthea Redfern was born on 15 April 1948 in Newton Abbot, Devon, England, where she spent her early years before moving into the world of performance and modelling.
Redfern trained as a dancer early in her life, an experience that prepared her for stage presence and public performance.
She later transitioned into modelling, working both in Paris and the United Kingdom. During this period, she appeared in fashion work and became one of the earlier models featured on Page 3 of The Sun newspaper, though not in a topless capacity.
In 1969, Redfern joined the prestigious Playboy Bunny club in London’s Park Lane, performing under the name “Sasha,” and in 1970 she was crowned Miss London. This combination of performance and publicity opened opportunities that would lead her toward television.
How Did Anthea Redfern Rise to Fame in British Television?
Anthea Redfern’s major breakthrough came when she successfully auditioned for a role on The Generation Game, competing against dozens of hopefuls. Her selection as hostess marked the start of her television prominence.
The Generation Game was a Saturday evening BBC game show that combined family fun, quizzes, and entertaining competitions. Hosted by Bruce Forsyth, the programme became a staple of British weekend viewing and attracted huge audiences during its original run.
As the show’s hostess, Redfern supported Forsyth on stage, introduced contestants, presented prizes, and contributed to the lively pace of the show.
Colleagues and fans alike noted her charm and professionalism, with audiences often remembering her good‑humoured encouragement and stage presence.
What Was Anthea Redfern’s Role on The Generation Game?
In her role on The Generation Game, Anthea Redfern was more than a supporting figure she was an integral part of the show’s identity.
The chemistry between Redfern and Forsyth helped define the programme’s dynamic, and her smiling presence became familiar to millions of households across the UK.
Week after week, Redfern would guide contestants through rounds of questions and tasks, ensuring the show’s tempo remained engaging.
Fans recall that Forsyth occasionally encouraged Redfern to “give us a twirl” in the context of introducing participants and adding flair to broadcast moments.
Her tenure as hostess lasted throughout the first major era of the show in the 1970s, a period during which The Generation Game became a symbol of Saturday night entertainment on British television.
What Impact Did Her Marriage to Bruce Forsyth Have on Her Career?
Anthea Redfern and Bruce Forsyth’s relationship grew out of their work together on The Generation Game.
The pair’s professional partnership later became a personal one: Forsyth, one of the UK’s most celebrated entertainers, divorced his first wife and married Redfern in December 1973.
The relationship attracted media attention given Forsyth’s prominence in the entertainment industry and Redfern’s rising visibility. Together they had two daughters, Charlotte and Louisa, and Redfern continued to work in television throughout this time.
Their marriage lasted until 1982, after which Redfern moved on to other aspects of her personal and public life.
What Did Anthea Redfern Do After Leaving The Generation Game?
After her time on The Generation Game, Anthea Redfern pursued a variety of projects in television and beyond. Her credits include appearances in TV shows such as Let’s Parlez Franglais (1984) and Give Us a Clue (1979), showcasing her versatility as a screen personality.
Personal changes also marked this period of her life. Following her divorce from Forsyth, Redfern married hotelier Freddie Hoffman, with whom she had a daughter named India, and lived for a period between the UK and other locations, including Marbella, Spain.
She has occasionally returned to British television for guest appearances, including in entertainment programmes such as Come Dine with Me.
How Has Anthea Redfern Influenced British Television History?
Anthea Redfern’s work on The Generation Game came at a time when British television was solidifying its place as a central part of weekend entertainment culture.
Her professionalism and on‑screen rapport with Forsyth contributed to a show that became emblematic of 1970s British TV success.
While often remembered in the public eye for her role alongside Forsyth, Redfern also helped set a template for the popular game show hostess figure someone who combined charisma, supportive engagement, and stage confidence during a live broadcast.
Where Is Anthea Redfern Now and What Is She Doing?
Today, Anthea Redfern lives a more private life outside of daily broadcasting, though she remains connected to UK television culture through the legacy of her earlier work. She has made occasional media appearances and continues to be mentioned in retrospectives of classic British television.
Her life after active television reflects a blend of personal evolution and selective public engagement, with fans remembering her contributions to entertainment through the decades.
Why Is Anthea Redfern Still Remembered by UK Audiences?
Anthea Redfern is remembered for her part in shaping an entertaining era of British television. Her work on The Generation Game represents a time when family audiences gathered around the BBC on Saturday evenings, making her familiar to viewers across the UK.
Her association with Bruce Forsyth one of the most iconic figures in British entertainment history also cements her status as a memorable figure from the golden age of game shows.
Conclusion
Anthea Redfern remains an iconic figure in British television history, celebrated for her elegance, poise, and contribution to the success of The Generation Game.
From her early days in Devon to becoming a household name in the 1970s, her journey reflects both professional excellence and enduring cultural relevance.
Though she now leads a quieter life, her legacy continues to resonate with UK audiences who fondly remember the golden era of Saturday night TV.
FAQs About Anthea Redfern
Who discovered Anthea Redfern for television?
Anthea Redfern was selected from a large group of applicants to be the hostess on The Generation Game, standing out for her stage presence and performance background.
Did Anthea Redfern model before TV?
Yes, she modelled in Paris and the UK, and appeared as a Playboy Bunny before moving into television hosting.
How long was she on The Generation Game?
Redfern served as hostess throughout the show’s first major BBC run in the 1970s.
Did Anthea Redfern appear in other TV programmes?
Yes, her credits include shows such as Give Us a Clue and Let’s Parlez Franglais.
Where does Anthea Redfern live now?
She has spent significant time living in Marbella, Spain, while still appearing occasionally on British TV.
How many children does she have?
Anthea Redfern has three daughters two with Bruce Forsyth and one with Freddie Hoffman.
Is Anthea Redfern still involved in entertainment?
While now more private, she has made selective television appearances after her main broadcasting career.