Stephen Mulhern’s recent public apology to rental tenants over substandard housing and his continued TV success reinforce his position as one of the UK’s most transparent and beloved entertainers.
Stephen Mulhern is an English television presenter, magician, and entertainer whose career has spanned children’s and primetime TV, radio, stage shows, and more. This comprehensive article delves into his life story, career highlights, recent news, controversies, and frequently asked questions, all presented in a detailed, human tone and an SEO-friendly format.
Who is Stephen Mulhern?
Stephen Daniel Mulhern (born April 4, 1977, Stratford, London) is renowned in British entertainment for his infectious personality, versatile hosting, and exceptional magic skills. As of 2025, Mulhern is most familiar to audiences for presenting ITV shows such as “Catchphrase,” “Britain’s Got More Talent,” “In For A Penny,” and “Dancing on Ice”. He is celebrated for his catchphrase ‘unbelievable’, his approachable on-screen style, and his remarkable journey from young magician to national television stardom.
Early Life And Origin
Stephen Mulhern grew up in Stratford, East London, within a close-knit working-class family – his parents were market traders. He attended St Bonaventure’s school in Forest Gate, where his passion for magic emerged thanks to his father’s influence. Mulhern began public performances at just 11 years old and later worked as a Butlin’s Redcoat, honing his live entertainment skills.
Career Cycle and Milestones
Magic Beginnings
Stephen Mulhern’s entry into showbiz began with magic performances at family holidays, then as a Butlin’s Redcoat. His precocity led him to become the youngest member of The Magic Circle, although he was briefly suspended after revealing a trick on TV – a controversy soon resolved. He won “The Big Big Talent Show” in 1997 and performed at the Royal Variety Performance, marking his first big break.
Television Success
Stephen Mulhern’s TV journey began with hosting children’s shows, including “Finger Tips” and “Tricky TV.” He then co-hosted “Holly & Stephen’s Saturday Showdown” with Holly Willoughby. Mulhern moved to primetime television, presenting “Britain’s Got More Talent” from 2007 till 2019, “Catchphrase” since 2013, and shows like “In For A Penny,” “Big Star’s Little Star,” “Rolling In It,” and the 2023 reboot of “Deal or No Deal”. He co-hosted “Dancing on Ice” alongside Holly Willoughby in recent years and appeared on the National Lottery and special charity shows.
Radio And Stage
Outside of television, Mulhern co-presented Heart FM’s Sunday mornings (2012–2018) and covered for other major radio personalities on Virgin Radio UK. He has regularly performed live magic on tour across UK theatres and Butlin’s holiday resorts, earning a special statue as a Butlin’s Redcoat in Minehead during his final contract years.
Personality, Catchphrases, and Public Image
Stephen Mulhern’s television persona is described as cheeky, approachable, and charming. His catchphrase “unbelievable” and comic timing have become his trademarks on “Britain’s Got More Talent” and other game shows. He is celebrated as a family-friendly entertainer with a strong ability to connect to a variety of audiences.
Breed and Ancestry
Though “breed” in the context of Stephen Mulhern refers to his media legacy, his actual ancestry is English with Irish descent through his family roots. The name Stephen itself means “crown” in Greek, denoting legacy and leadership.
Controversies
Stephen Mulhern’s public career is remarkably free of major scandal, but recent minor controversies include:
- Magic Circle Suspension: Suspended for exposing a trick on children’s TV, later reinstated.
- Rental Property Criticism: In 2024, Mulhern apologised after tenants in his Leicester rental home reported living in poor conditions due to damp and mould. He expressed deep regret and personally arranged for urgent repairs, stating that the situation was unacceptable and did not reflect his standards.
- “Dancing on Ice” Joke: In early 2025, Mulhern received backlash for an on-air joke referencing a “golden shower.” Some viewers found the comment inappropriate, given other ongoing scandals at ITV, though Mulhern clarified and apologised that it was a misinterpretation.
Recent News
- Property Controversy: Mulhern publicly addressed complaints from tenants living in squalor at a Leicester property he owns, taking immediate steps to fix the situation.
- Show Hosting: He replaced Phillip Schofield as the co-host of “Dancing on Ice” in 2024, continuing through the show’s final series in March 2025.
- Butlin’s Contract: Mulhern’s Butlin’s contract and stage performances concluded in August 2025 after a high-profile three-year extension.
- Return to “Britain’s Got More Talent”: Mulhern has confirmed the return as host for the companion show, quashing rumours of his departure.
FAQs About Stephen Mulhern
What made Stephen Mulhern famous?
His unique combination of magic and charm made Mulhern a favourite on children’s TV and paved the way for high-profile hosting gigs on ITV.
What are Mulhern’s signature TV shows?
Key shows include “Catchphrase,” “Britain’s Got More Talent,” “Deal or No Deal,” “In For A Penny,” and “Dancing on Ice”.
Has Mulhern faced any major scandals?
Mulhern’s reputation is largely clean, with only brief controversies, such as the Magic Circle suspension and recent property rental complaints, which he has quickly addressed.
Is Stephen Mulhern married?
As of 2025, Mulhern’s relationship status is kept private; there is no public record of his marriage.
What is his magic legacy?
Mulhern was the youngest member of The Magic Circle. He revitalised magic on UK television through shows and live performances.
What is Mulhern’s approach to controversies?
Known for humility, Mulhern responds to criticism by taking personal responsibility and seeking a swift resolution, as seen in the rental property case.
What is his catchphrase?
His catchphrase is “unbelievable!” which he uses on various shows, notably on “Britain’s Got More Talent”.
The Life Cycle of a Modern Entertainer
From a Stratford childhood to performing magic at UK resorts, presenting hit ITV programs, and handling controversies with dignity, Stephen Mulhern has set a standard for versatility and likeable celebrity culture in British media. His journey is marked by adaptability—shifting between live stage magic, radio shows, children’s TV, prime time, and now addressing property owner responsibilities.
