Bargain Hunt specialist James Lewis has shared that he has tied the knot with a man who is 18 years younger following his separation from his previous spouse. The 53-year-old TV antiques auctioneer, James, exchanged vows with Ed Otter in a small ceremony last September, attended by 50 guests, including his 17-year-old daughter from his first marriage.
During an event in London for the Born Free Foundation, BBC personality James discussed his journey to finding love again after his marriage with Annabelle came to an end. Recalling the initial encounter with his now-husband, James mentioned meeting him 15 years ago while playing pool in a local Derbyshire pub. He described it as a near-instant connection as he had recently parted ways with his first wife and felt ready for a new chapter.
Known for his appearances on BBC’s Bargain Hunt and previously on Flog It!, James revealed that he and Ed had considered eloping to the United States for their wedding but ultimately decided to include his daughter Arabella in the celebration. Arabella played a crucial role in the decision-making process, expressing her desire for both James and Ed to walk her down the aisle.
Despite a health scare just days before the wedding, where James experienced a significant spike in his heart rate, reaching over 250 beats per minute, the ceremony proceeded smoothly. James, who has survived two cardiac arrests in the past, humorously shared the incident, emphasizing the importance of having loved ones present during life’s significant moments.
Acknowledging his daughter’s close bond with Ed, James mentioned that both Arabella and Ed refer to each other as “Dad.” He expressed gratitude for their harmonious relationship and credited Ed’s accommodating nature for making their professional and personal collaborations seamless. James, who co-founded Bamfords Auctioneers with his parents, highlighted their shared interests, particularly their passion for animals, as a strong foundation for their relationship.
An advocate for wildlife conservation, James has been actively involved with the Born Free Foundation for over two decades, aligning with the charity’s mission alongside actress Dame Virginia McKenna. Reflecting on the naming of his daughter after a lioness he was rescuing during a critical moment in his life, James emphasized the significance of his charitable endeavors and his determination to continue supporting conservation efforts despite health challenges.
As he navigates his ongoing charity work, James remains committed to making a positive impact, balancing his personal life with his philanthropic pursuits. His resilience and dedication to wildlife causes serve as a testament to his unwavering spirit and determination to create a better world for animals in need.