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Ellie Harrison Reflects on “Awful” On-Air Seaweed Bath Segment on Countryfile
Ellie Harrison, the former presenter of the popular BBC program Countryfile, has revisited a past on-screen moment she now views with embarrassment. Despite a lengthy and successful career on the rural affairs show, Harrison, who departed Countryfile in 2023 after 13 years, expressed regret over participating in a particular segment involving a seaweed bath. This revelation comes from a resurfaced interview where the TV personality discussed her experiences on the show, highlighting moments she found less than enjoyable.
Regret Over 2011 Spa Treatment Segment
During a 2017 interview, Harrison recalled the 2011 episode where she underwent a spa treatment that involved bathing in seaweed. The segment featured her submerged in a bath filled with seaweed and receiving a seaweed facial. This scene generated considerable attention at the time due to the nature of the treatment, which required the presenter to disrobe for the cameras. Looking back, Harrison confessed that she would likely reconsider agreeing to that scene if given the chance again.
“Awful” Experience and Stereotypes
“That seaweed bath’s got to be right up there, hasn’t it? Awful,” Harrison stated in 2017, reflecting on the segment. She further elaborated on her decision-making process at the time, explaining, “If you’re young and you haven’t done much telly, you do it even though you don’t necessarily agree with all of it.”
Harrison acknowledged that with hindsight, her perspective has shifted. “So in hindsight I wouldn’t have done that scene in the bath. Because it plays to some stereotypes,” she explained.
Initial Reluctance and Evolving Perspective
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Harrison admitted her initial motivations were primarily professional. “But at the time I was just, ‘I’m being paid my daily rate, so I’m kind of doing what I’m told,’” she recounted. However, her views have since evolved, particularly in relation to her personal experiences. “I probably wouldn’t do it again now, certainly not with a three-babies body,” Harrison added.
Departure from Countryfile and Future Plans
Harrison officially concluded her tenure on the BBC series in 2023, bringing an end to her 13-year involvement with Countryfile. The broadcaster announced her departure, citing her desire to dedicate more time to her young family in her final column for Countryfile Magazine.
While acknowledging the aspects of Countryfile she would “miss,” Harrison also hinted at upcoming ventures. “I’ve come to realise that I don’t need to navigate to a whole new ocean or even a new sea, but to chart a new course somewhere in these waters, raising my three wonderful children, growing our family business and following my own creative calling to produce art of my own making,” the former Countryfile presenter shared.
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