Pete Wicks: Reality Star’s Bold Conversation on Mental Health and Modern Masculinity

Pete Wicks Brings Important Conversations to the Forefront

Pete Wicks, the 37-year-old reality television personality best known for his time on The Only Way Is Essex, has become an increasingly influential voice on men’s mental health and modern masculinity. In 2025, the Essex-born star has expanded his platform beyond reality TV, using his podcast ‘Man Made’ to tackle important social issues and break down stigmas surrounding male mental health.

In a landmark moment, Pete Wicks interviewed Prime Minister Keir Starmer for a special episode of his podcast, recorded at 10 Downing Street as part of Men’s Mental Health Month. The conversation covered topics ranging from fatherhood and grief to the challenges facing young men today, demonstrating Wicks’s commitment to facilitating meaningful dialogue on masculinity.

Opening Up About Personal Struggles

Despite his professional success, Pete revealed he’s “getting to a point where I’m lower than I ever have been surprisingly, despite everything going better than it ever has been”. This candid admission on his podcast highlights the reality that success doesn’t automatically equate to happiness, a message that resonates with many struggling with mental health.

After appearances on Strictly Come Dancing, Celebs Go Dating and Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins, Pete branched out into the world of documentaries in 2025, with his show For Dogs’ Sake. In April 2025, Pete confirmed the show has been renewed for two further series and a Christmas special, reflecting his dedication to animal welfare and dog rescue.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As 2025 draws to a close, the highly anticipated second season of the ‘Man Made’ podcast will be returning in January 2026. Pete continues to balance his television work, podcast commitments, and personal struggles, remaining transparent about his journey. His willingness to discuss difficult topics like loneliness, mental health, and masculinity has positioned him as an important voice for modern men seeking authentic role models.

For readers navigating their own mental health challenges, Pete Wicks’s story serves as a reminder that vulnerability and openness are strengths, not weaknesses, and that seeking help and having honest conversations can make a meaningful difference.