Kim Woodburn, a well-known British reality TV personality recognized as the “Queen of Clean” from Channel 4’s “How Clean Is Your House?,” passed away on Monday, June 16, 2025, at the age of 83, following a brief illness. Her manager confirmed her passing to BBC News on June 17.
Woodburn’s husband, Peter, shared the news of her death on her official Instagram page, stating that his “wonderful, beautiful Kim passed away last night.” The post featured various photos of Woodburn spanning her life and career.
The manager’s statement described Woodburn as a kind, caring, charismatic, and strong individual, noting that her husband Peter is deeply saddened by the loss of his soulmate. The statement expressed pride in Woodburn’s achievements and asked for privacy for her husband and close friends during their mourning.
Woodburn gained fame in 2003 as the co-host of “How Clean Is Your House?” alongside Aggie MacKenzie. The Channel 4 show aired from 2003 to 2009, featuring the pair visiting homes in disrepair to conduct deep cleaning and provide tips to viewers. The show, known for its dramatic elements and Woodburn’s direct interactions with homeowners, became popular and made both hosts well-known figures.
MacKenzie paid tribute to Woodburn, describing her as a tormented soul who has now found peace. She acknowledged their frequent disagreements while recognizing the pain and strength behind Woodburn’s strong demeanor. MacKenzie expressed hope that Woodburn is now resting, referring to her as unforgettable.
In recent years, Woodburn returned to the spotlight through her 2017 appearance on “Celebrity Big Brother” on Channel 5. The show was notable for her confrontations with other participants, particularly with “Loose Women” panelist Coleen Nolan. The conflict escalated in 2018 on the “Loose Women” talk show, where Woodburn, after discussing her traumatic childhood, left the set in tears. The incident led to over 3,000 complaints to Ofcom, focusing on the panel’s treatment of Woodburn.
Woodburn’s reality TV career included notable appearances, such as finishing as runner-up to chef Gino D’Acampo on “I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!” in 2009. She also competed in E4’s “Celebrity Cooking School” in 2022 and frequently appeared on British talk shows like “This Morning” and “Loose Women.”
Born Patricia Mary McKenzie on March 25, 1942, in Hampshire, Woodburn faced a challenging childhood marked by abuse. She left home at 16 and moved to Liverpool, where she worked as a live-in cleaner. In a 2008 interview on BBC’s “Heaven and Earth,” Woodburn spoke about her early years, including being sent to a boarding school at ages three or four, where nuns treated children harshly.
In her twenties, Woodburn became pregnant, losing the baby at six months and burying the child in a Liverpool park. She spoke of being alone without parental support after her boyfriend left, expressing relief that such situations are now less stigmatized. In her 2007 autobiography “Unbeaten,” she wrote about these experiences, stating she would never forgive her parents for their cruelty.
Woodburn eventually settled in Nantwich, Cheshire, with her second husband, Peter Woodburn, whom she married in 1979. Her first marriage to Kenneth Davies ended in divorce in 1975. In March 2025, a message on her Instagram indicated she was experiencing health issues and unable to record videos for the foreseeable future.
Following her death, several celebrities and colleagues paid tribute. Pop duo Jedward, who appeared with Woodburn on “Celebrity Big Brother,” expressed their condolences, noting her support during their experiences with bullying. Producer Lee Smithurst shared memories from 2018, describing how Woodburn requested a pen to sign autographs for children near a filming venue, showcasing her popularity.
Woodburn became a cultural icon known for her outspoken views and memorable catchphrases, sparking numerous internet memes. Her confrontational style and presentation made her a favorite subject for drag performers, earning her lasting recognition in British pop culture. Woodburn maintained her public presence through social media and occasional TV appearances until her health declined earlier this year.
