Penny Smith Biography: Awards, Ethnicity, Net Worth, Age, Height, TV Shows, Husband, Books, Religion, Parents

Penelope Jane Smith, who is also known by her stage name Penny Smith, is a British newsreader, television presenter, and author who rose to prominence through her long-standing career in broadcast journalism.

She first gained widespread recognition as a leading news anchor on GMTV, where she became a familiar face on British breakfast television from 1993 to 2010.

Her rise to fame was driven by her ability to combine authoritative news delivery with a warm and conversational on-screen presence, making her a trusted figure among viewers.

Beyond television, she is also recognized for her work in radio broadcasting and her transition into writing as a published novelist.

Quick Facts

• Full Name: Penelope Jane Smith
• Stage Name: Penny Smith
• Date of Birth: September 21, 1958
• Age: 67 years old
• Gender: Female
• Place of Birth: Eastwood, Nottinghamshire, England
• Nationality: British
• Profession: Newsreader, Television Presenter, Author
• Height: 5 feet 7 inches
• Eye Color: Blue
• Hair Color: Blonde
• Parents: Graham Smith, Christine Smith
• Siblings: N/A
• Spouse: Tony Birtley (m. 1984–1987)
• Children: N/A
• Relationship Status: In a relationship
• Religion: Christianity
• Ethnicity: British
• Net Worth: $5,000,000

Early Life and Education

Penelope Jane Smith, known professionally as Penny Smith, is now at the age of 67 years old, was born on September 21, 1958.

She was raised in the East Midlands by her parents, Graham and Christine Smith, where her father worked as an engineer.

She attended Uppingham Primary School and later Rutland High School for Girls in Oakham.

She began her career in journalism at the age of eighteen rather than pursuing immediate university education, working as a trainee reporter for the Peterborough Evening Telegraph in 1977.

Penelope Jane Smith‘s early hands-on experience in reporting laid the foundation for her transition into radio and television broadcasting.

Personal Life

Penny Smith married journalist Tony Birtley in 1984, but their marriage ended in divorce in 1987.

She later had relationships with public figures including Rory Bremner and Paul McKenna before entering a long-term partnership with actor Vince Leigh in 2001.

She has chosen not to have children, a decision she has openly discussed as a personal choice that allowed her to focus on her career and lifestyle.

She lives in London and maintains an active interest in health and wellness, particularly yoga, which she has promoted through instructional content.

Career

Penny Smith began her professional journey in local print and radio journalism before moving into television with Border Television and Thames News.

She gained national recognition as one of the launch presenters of Sky News in 1989, marking a significant step in her broadcasting career.

Penelope Jane Smith joined GMTV in 1993, where she served as a main presenter and newsreader for seventeen years.

During this period, she became a central figure in British morning television, regularly appearing on flagship segments and building a strong connection with viewers.

After leaving GMTV in 2010, Penny Smith transitioned into radio broadcasting, working with BBC Radio London and later Scala Radio.

She has also appeared on various panel shows and lifestyle programs, while expanding her career into writing as a novelist.

Net Worth

Penny Smith has an estimated net worth of $5,000,000.

Her income is derived from her extensive career in television and radio broadcasting, along with earnings from her published books and other media-related ventures.

Social Media

• Instagram: @whichpennysmith
• X: @pennysmithitv

Filmography

• Moon and Son (1992)
• Jonathan Creek (1997)
• Trial & Retribution (1997)
• Garfield: A Tail of Two Kitties (2006)

Books

• Coming On Strong (2008)
• After the Break (2009)
• Summer Holiday (2011)