BBC Bargain Hunt’s Izzie Balmer originally wanted to be a musician but didn’t enjoy studying it at college.
The TV star has made her name as an expert in all things old, sparkly and collectible on programmes like Bargain Hunt, Flog It! and Antiques Road Trip.
But she once revealed that she actually wanted to pursue a career in music.
Izzie, who used to play the viola with the National Youth Orchestra, previously told Great British Life: “I planned to be a professional musician but didn’t enjoy music college.
“It wasn’t for me.”
Izzie got into her current career when her mum suggested she sign up for some work experience at a local auction house.
(Image: izziedot/Instagram)
She was later offered a job there and went on to study at Birmingham’s School of Jewellery.
“I kind of fell into this job but I absolutely love it,” she told the Bristol Post in 2019:
“I have always loved jewellery and been a fan of sparkly things, like most girls. I cannot think of anything I would rather do.”
Izzie got her big TV break when she filled in for her boss.
(Image: izziedot/Instagram)
He was supposed to be on the rostrum at his sales room, and was going to be filmed for Bargain Hunt.
But he got called away suddenly to take his wife to a medical appointment, so Izzie stepped in at the last minute.
She told Great British Life that although it hadn’t been part of her plan there were no other auctioneers available so it had to be her.
“I wasn’t accustomed to TV, I wasn’t dressed for TV – and I hadn’t got any lipstick!” Izzie said.
(Image: BBC/STV Productions)
“I had to have a microphone pack on but I was only wearing a strappy summer dress, so it had to be attached to my bra. Half way through, the Bargain Hunt crew member fixing it on said, ‘By the way, my name’s Jim’.
“I hadn’t had a chance to see the items coming up for auction or think about how to describe them. I was completely unprepared.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
