Charlie Ross: From Quirky Jobs to Record-Breaking Auctions
Renowned antiques expert Charlie Ross has become a familiar face to viewers of BBC One’s Bargain Hunt, where he shares his wealth of knowledge and expertise with audiences. While he has achieved great success in the industry, his journey to becoming a prominent figure in the world of antiques was filled with unexpected twists and turns.
Ross’s career began in a rather unconventional manner, starting at a local estate agent firm after leaving school. However, it was his experience auctioning chickens and turkeys that truly set him on a unique path. From these humble beginnings, Ross transitioned to dealing with antique furniture, eventually establishing his own auction house near Milton Keynes.
One of the highlights of Ross’s career was his role in overseeing the Pebble Beach Vintage Car Auction in California and the Scottsdale Auction in Arizona for Gooding and Company. His reputation as an expert auctioneer was solidified when he set a record for the highest price ever achieved for a car sold by auction in the US, with the sale of a 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa Prototype for over $16 million in 2011.
When asked about his future on Bargain Hunt, Ross expressed his passion for the show, stating that as long as he continues to enjoy it and is wanted by viewers, he has no plans to retire. Reflecting on his career trajectory, he humorously remarked, “As long as no one says ‘Who is that boring bugger? We don’t want him anymore’.”
From Dentistry Dreams to Antique Passion
Despite originally aspiring to become a dentist, Ross’s path took a different direction when he did not pass his medical school exams. With no familial ties to the world of antiques, he stumbled upon his passion for auctions during a visit to an auction room in Buckingham. This serendipitous discovery ultimately led him to a fulfilling career in the industry.
Throughout his tenure on Bargain Hunt, Ross’s infectious energy and enthusiasm have endeared him to audiences, with no plans of slowing down anytime soon. He remains grateful for the opportunity to be part of the show, emphasizing his luck and privilege in being able to share his expertise with viewers.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Ross leads a fulfilling personal life, being married to wife Sally and raising two children, Charlotte Macdonald and Olly Ross. As a proud grandparent to four grandchildren, Finn and Max Macdonald, and Ana and Zac Ross, he finds joy in his family life.
A Passion for Antiques and a Bright Future Ahead
Having resided near Bicester outside Oxford since 1981, Ross has established himself as a prominent figure in the antiques world, with a wealth of experience and knowledge to draw upon. His dedication to his craft and unwavering enthusiasm for Bargain Hunt have solidified his place as a beloved expert in the industry.
As Bargain Hunt continues to captivate audiences with its unique blend of antiques expertise and entertainment, viewers can look forward to more insights and valuable contributions from Charlie Ross. With his infectious energy and passion for the world of antiques, Ross’s future on the show remains as bright as ever, ensuring that audiences will continue to be delighted by his presence on their screens.