Television personality and cleaning expert Kim Woodburn has died at the age of 83 after a short illness, her manager confirmed on Tuesday morning. The announcement marks the end of a bold and vibrant era in British television, one defined by Woodburn’s no-nonsense approach to cleaning and her unmistakable presence both on and off screen.
Known for co-presenting the Channel 4 hit “How Clean Is Your House?”, Kim Woodburn became a household name across the UK and Australia, captivating audiences with her candid, often fiery demeanour and uncompromising attitude towards household hygiene.
The Queen of Clean
Woodburn’s career breakthrough came in the early 2000s when she starred alongside Aggie MacKenzie in How Clean Is Your House?. The show ran from 2003 to 2009 and became a cultural phenomenon, showcasing the duo transforming some of Britain’s dirtiest homes with a mix of expert knowledge, tough love, and plenty of disinfectant.
Kim’s shock-and-awe approach made for compelling viewing. She was famously direct, often scolding residents for their untidy ways, but always with a glimmer of warmth that reminded viewers her mission was rooted in helping, not humiliating. Her catchphrases, scathing one-liners, and occasional on-screen gags — like dressing in hazmat suits — became iconic.
The show’s success cemented Kim Woodburn as a staple of daytime television, and her influence spread far beyond just the cleaning aisle.
Reality television personality and How Clean Is Your House star Kim Woodburn has passed away at 83, her manager has confirmed. [Getty Images]
A Career That Extended Beyond the Mop and Bucket
Following her success on How Clean Is Your House?, Kim Woodburn continued to appear regularly on British TV. She was a frequent guest on Loose Women, This Morning, and various other panel shows where her unapologetic honesty often stole the spotlight.
In 2017, she entered the Celebrity Big Brother house, where her time was nothing short of explosive. At 74, she became one of the most talked-about contestants of the season, clashing with other housemates and providing some of the show’s most memorable moments. Despite polarising opinions, her fiery presence reaffirmed her popularity and cultural relevance.
In fact, her stint on Celebrity Big Brother sparked a wave of renewed interest in her career, leading to appearances in advertisements, panel discussions, and more reality television. Her boldness resonated particularly with younger generations who admired her refusal to conform and her willingness to speak her mind.
A Private Life Behind the Public Persona
Despite her outspoken public image, those close to Kim Woodburn describe her as deeply caring and compassionate. In the statement confirming her passing, her manager said, “Kim was an incredibly kind, caring, charismatic and strong person.”
Her husband Peter, to whom she had been married for decades, was described as “heartbroken at the loss of his soulmate.” The couple maintained a strong and private relationship, away from the glitz of television fame.
“Kim’s achievements were many, and we are so proud of all she accomplished in her life and career,” the statement added. “We kindly ask that Kim’s husband and close friends are given the time and privacy they need to grieve.”
Legacy of Strength and Style
Kim Woodburn’s legacy goes beyond the television screen. She represented a generation of women who weren’t afraid to be bold, to age unapologetically, and to stand their ground. Her firm belief in standards — be they in hygiene or humanity — made her both a respected expert and a cultural icon.
Her distinctive blonde bouffant, glamorous makeup, and signature pearl necklaces were just as recognisable as her stern advice on scrubbing bathtubs and polishing brass. She brought both style and substance to what might have otherwise been a niche genre.
For many Australians who watched How Clean Is Your House? and her later television appearances, Kim Woodburn was more than a TV personality — she was an inspiration for self-respect, honesty, and not settling for less.
A Nation Says Goodbye
Tributes have poured in from across the world since the announcement of her death. Many fans and fellow celebrities have taken to social media to honour her memory, sharing clips of her most iconic moments and expressing admiration for her strength and spirit.
As British and Australian viewers reflect on her incredible life, Kim’s legacy as the ultimate cleaning crusader and one of reality TV’s most unforgettable figures remains untarnished. Her voice — whether demanding cleanliness or standing up for herself — will not be forgotten.
In an industry often dominated by filtered personas and careful PR, Kim Woodburn stood out as a genuine, larger-than-life character who owned her story and shared it with millions.
Farewell, Kim — may your dusters rest and your legacy shine.
