The Stace race
TV DIY queen could crack US with help of Hollywood star
STACEY Solomon looks set to take on America with her new DIY show, Renovation Rescue.
Not only that, but the Channel 4 show has been given a second series before it has even aired, sparking a battle to secure her after the success of decluttering hit Sort Your Life Out on BBC1.
Renovation Rescue is produced by Hollywood star Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine company.
Stacey was overjoyed that Legally Blonde star Reese, 48, had even heard of her.
She said: “How does she even know me? I still to this day don’t know how they found me.”
Now TV insiders reckon Reese’s connections could help Stacey become a Stateside hit.
A source said: “Renovation shows are a mega business in America. There are entire channels dedicated to them.
“And they love Brits. Bake Off is popular in the States because Americans love Paul and Prue’s Britishness. Grand Designs is also very popular in America because of Kevin McCloud.
“They think viewers will fall for Stacey’s English charm, and the Reese connection is a big enabler.
“They launched a UK arm of Hello Sunshine to create formats that could sell in Britain first then around the world. It’s all set up.”
RESCUE
In Renovation Rescue, Stacey, 34, comes to the aid of homeowners who have been left high and dry by builders who have abandoned their projects. It begins on Wednesday, just a week after the fifth series finale of awardwinning Sort Your Life Out. An insider said: “Stacey has carved out a successful career as the queen of DIY TV on the BBC and Channel 4 bosses are delighted they’ve been able to get in on the action. “They also believe she has what it takes to crack America.” Mum-of-five Stacey, who is married to actor Joe Swash, 42, has enjoyed her most successful year, making more than £27,000 a week in 2023. Last month Sort Your Life Out won the Royal Television Society’s Best Popular Factual Show.