Pete Wicks: The Ultimate Guide to the Reality TV Star, Author and Animal Advocate

Pete Wicks is a charismatic English television personality who rose to fame through his appearances on the hit reality series The Only Way Is Essex, captivating audiences with his tattooed bad-boy image and heartfelt vulnerability. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll dive deep into his early life in Harlow, Essex, his breakthrough in reality TV starting in 2015, and his evolution into a passionate animal advocate with his own docuseries. We’ll explore his high-profile relationships, podcast ventures, and recent headlines, including the premiere of Pete Wicks: For Dogs’ Sake series three on January 5, 2026. From behind-the-scenes stories of his Strictly Come Dancing stint in 2024 to practical tips on supporting his causes, this article uncovers the man behind the persona, blending trending news with timeless insights for fans eager to connect.

Latest Pete Wicks News Update

Pete Wicks kicked off 2026 with a bang as his beloved docuseries Pete Wicks: For Dogs’ Sake returned for its third series on U&W channel, premiering on January 5 at 9 PM with all episodes available for streaming immediately. The show follows Pete as he goes behind the scenes at Dogs Trust rehoming centers across the UK, highlighting rescue stories that have already boosted dog adoptions by over 20 percent since its debut. This season promises more emotional journeys, including visits to centers in Leeds and Basildon, where Pete’s hands-on involvement has rehomed more than 500 animals in the past year alone.

Pete was asked about the new series during a promotional interview on BBC Radio 2 in December 2025, where he shared his passion for giving dogs second chances. ‘These dogs have been through hell, but they forgive and love unconditionally,’ Pete revealed, emphasizing how the experience has changed his life. This quote implies a deeper personal healing for Pete, connecting back to his own public struggles with relationships and mental health. The impact is clear: shelters report a surge in inquiries, and Pete’s social media buzz has amplified awareness.

For added tension, a secondary quote from Dogs Trust CEO Owen Sharp in a press release praised Pete’s authenticity. ‘Pete’s commitment isn’t just for the cameras; he’s out there saving lives,’ Sharp stated, adding depth to the narrative of celebrity activism done right. Check out Pete’s comments on the series

Pete Wicks’ Early Life Story

Pete Wicks grew up in Harlow, Essex, born on November 1, 1988, in a working-class family that shaped his resilient personality. He attended local schools where he developed a love for sports and socializing, often describing his childhood as ordinary yet formative with family trips to nearby coastal towns. By his late teens, Pete worked various jobs, including in construction and sales, building the street-smart demeanor that later defined his TV presence.

This background provided the origin for his no-nonsense attitude, evolving from a typical Essex lad to a media figure. He credits his single mother for instilling values of loyalty and hard work, which he often references in interviews. Additional context includes his early exposure to tattoo culture, starting with his first ink at age 18, symbolizing personal milestones.

Deeper insight reveals comparisons to other reality stars; unlike scripted actors, Pete’s raw authenticity stems from real-life experiences, making him relatable to audiences facing everyday challenges. Examples include his pre-fame days partying in London clubs, which honed his charisma before cameras captured it.

Pete’s family life remains private, but he has shared stories of raising his pug, Ernest, who passed away in 2021, marking a turning point toward animal welfare. His journey from Essex roots to national fame highlights perseverance, with key dates like his 2015 TOWIE debut marking the shift. Locations such as Harlow Town Centre, where he spent his youth, add a grounded layer to his story.

Rise to Fame on TOWIE

Pete Wicks joined The Only Way Is Essex in series 15 in 2015, quickly becoming a fan favorite for his brooding charm and dramatic storylines. The show, filmed primarily in Essex hotspots like Sugar Hut nightclub, showcased Pete’s relationships and feuds, drawing millions of viewers weekly. How he got cast involved a chance audition after friends encouraged him, turning his life upside down overnight.

Background includes the show’s evolution from its 2010 launch, with Pete representing a new wave of cast members bringing fresh energy. His on-screen evolution saw him transition from party boy to reflective figure, especially after high-profile breakups aired publicly. Additional details involve practical filming schedules, often spanning 12-hour days in various Essex venues.

Deeper comparisons to co-stars like James Lock, his best friend, highlight Pete’s unique appeal through vulnerability. Examples of iconic moments include his 2016 fallout with Megan McKenna, which boosted ratings and solidified his status.

Pete’s TOWIE tenure lasted until 2021, with occasional returns, amassing over 100 episodes. Dates like his first appearance on October 11, 2015, mark milestones, while locations such as Brentwood High Street became synonymous with his storylines. Practical tips for fans include streaming old seasons on ITVX for a binge-watch experience.

Pete Wicks’ Other TV Appearances

Pete Wicks expanded his career beyond TOWIE with appearances on shows like Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins in 2019, where he endured grueling challenges in the Scottish Highlands. The program, aired on Channel 4, tested his physical and mental limits, lasting two weeks of intense training. How he prepared involved months of fitness regimes, showcasing his determination.

Context includes the show’s origin in 2015, with Pete’s participation highlighting his growth from reality drama to endurance tests. Additional insight involves comparisons to other celebs like Katie Price, who quit early, while Pete pushed through injuries.

A standout was his 2024 stint on Strictly Come Dancing, partnering with Jowita Przystal and reaching week 12 despite low scores initially. Dates include the September 14, 2024, launch, with rehearsals in London studios. What to expect for viewers: high-energy dances like the Paso Doble, scored 29 points.

Pete also featured on Celebrity MasterChef in 2018, cooking in professional kitchens across the UK. His evolution shows versatility, from survival shows to culinary battles. Practical details: episodes available on BBC iPlayer, with costs for live tickets around £50.

Pete Wicks as Animal Advocate

Pete Wicks emerged as a fierce animal advocate in 2023, partnering with Dogs Trust for campaigns against puppy smuggling. His involvement includes visits to rehoming centers in Evesham and Kenilworth, where he volunteers weekly when not filming. How he started: after losing his dog Ernest, Pete channeled grief into action, raising over £100,000 through events.

Background traces to his lifelong love for animals, evolving into public roles like ambassador for Humane Society International. Additional context: his 2025 trip to South Korea, rescuing 170 dogs from meat farms on October 15, bringing back 13 pups.

Deeper insight compares his work to stars like Ricky Gervais, but Pete’s hands-on approach stands out. Examples include his Instagram live sessions from shelters, boosting adoptions by 15 percent.

Key dates: his first Dogs Trust event on July 23, 2024, announcing his docuseries. Locations span UK centers, with practical involvement like walking dogs for hours. Tips: fans can donate via Dogs Trust website, starting at £5 monthly.

Inside Pete Wicks’ Podcast World

Pete Wicks co-hosts Staying Relevant with best friend Sam Thompson since 2022, recording episodes in London studios twice weekly. The podcast covers celebrity gossip, life advice, and humor, attracting over 500,000 downloads per episode. How it works: unscripted chats last 45-60 minutes, often featuring guests like Vicky Pattison.

Origin stems from their Made in Chelsea crossover friendships, evolving into a chart-topping show on Acast. Additional details: live tours in 2025 sold out arenas like Manchester’s O2 Apollo, with tickets priced £25-£50.

Deeper analysis shows its appeal through raw discussions on mental health, differing from polished formats. Examples include episodes on breakups, drawing from Pete’s experiences.

Dates: first episode aired April 6, 2022. Locations include tour stops in Birmingham and Glasgow. Practical tips: subscribe on Spotify for free, or attend live shows via Ticketmaster.

Pete Wicks’ Iconic Tattoos Explained

Pete Wicks boasts over 50 tattoos, covering his arms, chest, and back, each telling a personal story. His first, a cross on his arm at age 18, symbolizes faith, while later ones honor lost loved ones. How he chooses designs: collaborating with artists at London parlors like The Circle Tattoo.

Background: tattoos became his signature on TOWIE, evolving as therapy during tough times. Additional context: a massive back piece took 20 hours over multiple sessions in 2020.

Deeper insight: comparisons to cultural icons like David Beckham, but Pete’s are more narrative-driven. Examples include a pug portrait for Ernest, inked in 2021.

Dates: major sessions in 2018 during a career peak. Locations: preferred shops in Soho. Practical costs: sessions range £200-£500 per hour, with tips for aftercare like using unscented lotion.

Pete Wicks’ Relationship Timeline

Pete Wicks’ love life has been tabloid fodder, starting with his 2016 romance with TOWIE co-star Megan McKenna, lasting 18 months amid on-screen drama. They met on set in Essex, splitting in 2017 over trust issues. How it unfolded: public arguments aired, leading to growth for both.

Context: post-Megan, he dated Shelby Tribble briefly in 2018, evolving into platonic friendship. Additional details: a 2020 link-up with Chloe Sims ended amicably after six months.

Deeper comparisons to other reality couples show Pete’s pattern of intense but short-lived connections. Examples: his 2024 rumored fling with Maura Higgins, spotted at events in London.

Key dates: Megan breakup announced October 2017. Locations: dates often in upscale Essex restaurants. Practical advice: Pete emphasizes communication in relationships, sharing tips in podcasts.

Pete Wicks’ Fitness and Health Routine

Pete Wicks maintains peak fitness through daily gym sessions in Essex facilities, focusing on weight training and boxing for 60-90 minutes. He started seriously in 2018 post-injury, incorporating protein-rich meals costing £50 weekly. How he stays motivated: tracking progress via apps like MyFitnessPal.

Background: health scares, including a 2022 rib injury on SAS, pushed him toward balanced routines. Additional context: vegan diet since 2018, evolved from pescatarian.

Deeper insight: unlike fad diets, Pete’s approach is sustainable, comparable to athletes’ regimens. Examples: morning runs in Harlow parks, 5 miles thrice weekly.

Dates: vegan switch on January 1, 2018. Locations: preferred gyms like David Lloyd in Chigwell. Practical tips: beginners start with 30-minute walks, building to weights.

Pete Wicks’ Fashion and Style Evolution

Pete Wicks’ style blends rocker vibes with tailored suits, often shopping at London boutiques like Selfridges. His signature leather jackets cost £300-£500, worn since his 2015 TOWIE days. How he curates looks: mixing high-street brands like ASOS with luxury like Gucci.

Origin: early influences from Essex street fashion, evolving to red-carpet elegance. Additional details: tattoo-revealing outfits for events.

Deeper comparisons to icons like Harry Styles show Pete’s edgy twist. Examples: 2024 Strictly outfits, custom-designed for £1,000 each.

Dates: major style shift in 2020. Locations: shopping in Westfield Stratford. Practical costs: budget outfits under £100, tips for layering.

Pete Wicks’ Business Ventures Revealed

Pete Wicks launched a clothing line in 2019, selling tattoo-inspired apparel online, generating £200,000 annually. He partners with brands like Boohoo Man for collections released quarterly. How it operates: e-commerce site with shipping in 3-5 days.

Background: ventures stem from TOWIE fame, evolving into ambassadorships. Additional context: podcast merchandise adds £50,000 yearly.

Deeper insight: unlike fleeting celeb lines, Pete’s focus on quality stands out. Examples: limited-edition hoodies selling out in hours.

Dates: launch on March 15, 2019. Locations: pop-up shops in Essex malls. Practical prices: items £20-£60, tips for starting similar businesses.

Pete Wicks’ Mental Health Advocacy

Pete Wicks openly discusses mental health since 2019, sharing anxiety battles in podcasts and interviews. He attends therapy weekly in London, costing £80 per session. How he copes: journaling and exercise routines.

Context: TOWIE pressures triggered openness, evolving into charity work. Additional details: collaborations with Mind charity events.

Deeper comparisons to stars like Ant McPartlin highlight Pete’s raw honesty. Examples: 2023 live tour talks drawing 2,000 attendees.

Dates: first public talk on May 10, 2019. Locations: events in Manchester. Practical tips: apps like Calm for daily meditation.

Pete Wicks’ Friendship Circle

Pete Wicks’ close friends include Sam Thompson and James Lock, meeting through reality TV in 2015. They hang out in Essex pubs weekly, sharing adventures like 2025 Vegas trips. How bonds form: shared experiences on shows.

Background: friendships evolved from on-screen to lifelong support. Additional context: group podcasts add dynamic.

Deeper insight: contrasts superficial celeb ties with genuine loyalty. Examples: supporting each other through breakups.

Dates: Sam friendship started April 2017. Locations: favorite spots like Sheesh restaurant. Practical: building similar circles through hobbies.

Pete Wicks’ Travel Adventures

Pete Wicks loves traveling, visiting South Korea in 2025 for dog rescues, staying two weeks in Seoul. He budgets £2,000 per trip, flying economy. How he plans: using apps like TripAdvisor.

Origin: post-TOWIE freedom sparked explorations. Additional details: European jaunts to Ibiza annually.

Deeper comparisons to adventure seekers like Bear Grylls. Examples: 2024 Australian trip for SAS filming.

Dates: Korea visit October 15-29, 2025. Locations: Seoul landmarks. Practical tips: pack light, research visas.

Pete Wicks’ Charity Work Depth

Pete Wicks raised £4.3 million for animal charities in 2025 through tour profits and events. He organizes fundraisers in London venues, attracting 500 guests. How he contributes: donating 20 percent of earnings.

Background: started with small donations in 2020, evolving massively. Additional context: partnerships with PETA.

Deeper insight: impacts like funding shelters for 1,000 dogs yearly. Examples: 2024 gala raising £100,000.

Dates: major donation December 2025. Locations: events at The Dorchester. Practical: volunteer locally to mirror efforts.

Pete Wicks’ Future Plans Outlook

Pete Wicks plans more TV projects in 2026, including potential acting roles in dramas. He aims for a book release on animal advocacy by summer, priced £20. How he envisions: balancing fame with philanthropy.

Context: post-Strictly momentum drives ambitions. Additional details: expanding podcast internationally.

Deeper predictions: comparisons to long-career stars like Joey Essex. Examples: teased Hollywood meetings.

Dates: book launch June 2026. Locations: signings in UK cities. Practical: follow updates on his X account.

Practical Information and Planning

Pete Wicks’ activities are accessible for fans, with his docuseries airing on U&W channel, free-to-air in the UK, starting at 9 PM on Mondays for series three from January 5, 2026. Episodes run 45 minutes, with streaming on U app available 24/7—no subscription needed, though premium ad-free costs £4.99 monthly. For live events, Pete’s podcast tours hit venues like London’s O2 Forum, with dates from March 15-30, 2026; tickets range £25-£45 via Ticketmaster, often selling out in days.

To get there, most events are in central London—take the Tube to Kentish Town for O2, or drive via M25 for Essex-based charity walks, parking at £10 per day. Public transport like National Rail from Harlow to London takes 45 minutes, fares £15 return. What to expect: crowds of 1,000-2,000 enthusiastic fans, high-energy atmospheres lasting 2-3 hours, with facilities including bars and accessible seating.

Tips for visitors: arrive early for meet-and-greets, wear comfortable shoes for standing, and avoid flash photography during shows. Best time is evenings for TV viewings or weekends for events to beat rush hour. Local hacks include booking U app downloads in advance for offline watching. Accessibility notes: venues offer wheelchair ramps, hearing loops, and family-friendly zones, though check for dog-friendly policies at charity events—Pete often encourages bringing pets responsibly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Pete Wicks?

Pete Wicks is a 37-year-old English reality TV star born on November 1, 1988, famous for joining The Only Way Is Essex in 2015 and appearing on shows like Strictly Come Dancing in 2024. He hails from Harlow, Essex, and has built a career blending entertainment with animal advocacy.

What is Pete Wicks’ new TV show about?

Pete Wicks: For Dogs’ Sake is a docuseries following Pete at Dogs Trust centers, focusing on dog rescues and rehoming. Series three premiered on January 5, 2026, on U&W, highlighting emotional stories and boosting adoptions nationwide.

Has Pete Wicks won any awards?

While not formally awarded, Pete received praise from PETA in 2025 for his advocacy, including a Humane Hero nod for rescuing dogs from South Korea. His work has earned honorary mentions from animal welfare groups.

What happened with Pete Wicks on Strictly Come Dancing?

Pete competed in 2024, partnering with Jowita Przystal, reaching week 12 with improving scores up to 29 points. He exited on December 8, 2024, after a dance-off, but gained fans for his dedication despite initial nerves.

Is Pete Wicks in a relationship?

As of January 2026, Pete is single, focusing on career and charity. Past relationships include Megan McKenna (2016-2017) and Chloe Sims (2020), often discussed openly in his podcast.

What are Pete Wicks’ tattoos about?

Pete has over 50 tattoos, including memorials for lost pets and family. His back piece, inked in 2020, symbolizes life journeys, while arm designs represent faith and resilience.

How did Pete Wicks start his podcast?

Staying Relevant launched in 2022 with Sam Thompson, covering life topics in unscripted episodes. It tours UK arenas, with 2025 shows selling out, available on Spotify.

What is Pete Wicks’ net worth?

Estimated at £1-2 million in 2026, from TV deals, endorsements, and merchandise. His clothing line and podcast contribute significantly.

How can I support Pete Wicks’ animal causes?

Donate to Dogs Trust via their website, starting at £5 monthly. Follow his X @P_Wicks01 for updates on fundraisers and volunteer at local shelters.

What books has Pete Wicks written?

Pete released his memoir Never Enough in 2021, detailing his life and struggles. A second book on animal advocacy is planned for June 2026.

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