Chef Jamie Oliver has broken his silence on the engagement of his eldest daughter, Poppy Oliver, stating that it is a "lovely thing" and admitting it makes him feel old. The news of Poppy's engagement to her boyfriend of five years, Ben Newman, was first announced by Oliver's wife, Jools, on Instagram last month.
During an appearance on the television program "This Morning," the 51-year-old chef, who was promoting a new culinary venture, shared his thoughts on his daughter's upcoming marriage. "We were just talking about kids and your kids are going off to university and I'm like dude, it's a really mad time. Mine's just got engaged," Oliver remarked to the show's host, Ben Shephard.
He reflected on how quickly time has passed, noting that Poppy, who is now 24, was "pretty much born on TV." Oliver added, "It is a lovely thing. It just shows that we are getting a little bit older and the hangovers don't hit like they used to."
Jools Oliver had shared her excitement on Instagram, writing, "Probably one of my favourite reels so far. Our first baby Poppy Honey is getting married. We are so excited, proud and happy. Ben we all adore you." She recounted how Poppy met her fiancé while at university and that five years later, they had found their soulmate.
Jamie Oliver also shared his congratulations on his Instagram Story, posting, "Happy engagement my baby girl Poppy and Ben. I'm so please for you both. What a wonderful moment." The proposal reportedly took place during a sunset on a beach, with images showing Poppy displaying her engagement ring.
The couple met at university and, after graduating, traveled together around Australia. Jamie Oliver previously shared an emotional story about Poppy surprising her mother with her return from a long trip with Ben.
Jamie and Jools Oliver, who married in 2000, have five children: Poppy, Daisy Boo (23), Petal Blossom (17), Buddy Bear (15), and River Rocket (9). The couple renewed their wedding vows in the Maldives in 2023 and again in Las Vegas in 2024.
In June, Jamie Oliver marked his 26th wedding anniversary with a tribute to his wife, calling her his "rock." He has previously described their relationship as one where "opposites attract," contributing to a dynamic that has worked for over two decades. He also disclosed that Jools has neurodiversities that add challenges but also shape their family life.