After over a decade leading one of Britain’s most beloved antiques series, Drew Pritchard has officially quit Salvage Hunters, leaving fans stunned and eager for answers. Pritchard, famed for his sharp eye and relentless pursuit of relics across the UK, crafted a persona that blended passion for history with roguish charm. For eleven years, his presence was central to the show’s appeal, and his departure marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in reality television.
Announced in early 2025, his decision comes amid rumours, speculation and a changing landscape in his personal life. Pritchard confirmed his departure was a result of a desire to focus on the things that matter most to him—family, private projects, and personal wellbeing. The official word is that he plans to keep restoring antiques and classic cars, but now away from television’s glaring spotlight.
The Quiet Romance: Drew Pritchard’s New Wife
Equally captivating are the developments in Pritchard’s private life. After a high-profile divorce from his former wife and Salvage Hunters co-star Rebecca Pritchard in 2017, Drew spent years keeping his romantic affairs out of the public eye. Persistent rumours began to swirl about a new significant other, but details remained elusive for a long time.
Recent reports shed more light on his love life. Drew has quietly remarried, choosing a partner who deeply contrasts with his high-visibility world of antiques and television. Unlike his ex-wife, Drew’s new spouse prefers a life away from the cameras. The pair met through mutual friends at a social event, and their connection was described as immediate. Although her name has not been widely publicised—citing a desire for privacy—there have been suggestions she works in property development and interior design, with some outlets naming her as Debbie Harris. However, Pritchard himself has chosen not to comment directly on these reports, preferring to maintain a respectful boundary around his private affairs.
Love Outside the Spotlight
This move towards privacy stands in stark contrast with Pritchard’s earlier years, when his relationship with Rebecca was as much a part of his public persona as his work. This time, he and his new wife have kept their milestones—engagement, marriage and even daily life—out of the limelight. Friends and colleagues have described her as a stabilising influence, offering Drew support while he navigated turbulent years, including career setbacks and the closure of his iconic Conwy antique store.
Enthusiasts and media outlets alike have commented on how this new relationship has “brought a fresh perspective” to Pritchard’s world. He has shared that it was important for him to find someone who “supports and understands” the unique pressures of his career.
What Led to the Changes?
Drew’s decision to step away from Salvage Hunters appears intertwined with the drive for a more balanced life. Years in the public eye took their toll, with the stresses of broadcasting, business, and scrutiny mounting following a number of personal setbacks. Notably, fans recall his divorce and a widely reported affair that ended in a public confrontation in a Conwy pub—incidents that left their mark and made headlines more than once.
After his divorce, Pritchard maintained a co-operative professional relationship with Rebecca, who remained involved in Salvage Hunters and focused on her own projects. Drew, meanwhile, took time to reflect and rebuild. He resumed dealing antiques, poured energy into restoring a new home, and began to focus on life with his new partner.
Fans React: Shock, Gratitude and Speculation
Unsurprisingly, news of Drew’s exit from Salvage Hunters sent shockwaves across social media. Loyal viewers expressed devastation, gratitude and nostalgia for the adventures, negotiations and history lessons that kept them tuning in. Many voiced support for his desire to step back, acknowledging that over a decade running the show had been both rewarding and exhausting.
Nonetheless, speculation abounds. Some wonder if the cumulative pressure of scandals and the relentless filming schedule prompted his exit, while others point to his new marriage as a hopeful beacon of change—proof that happiness and work-life balance are possible, even after upheaval.
Where from Here? The Next Chapter
Looking at his recent statements and actions, Pritchard seems at peace with his choices. He continues to deal in antiques, restore classic cars and work on his own home renovation projects—pursuits that now take priority over celebrity status. Friends remark on his renewed vigour, suggesting that stepping away from TV is less a retreat than an active step towards a more meaningful and grounded life.
Meanwhile, Salvage Hunters will continue, with a team of trusted antiques experts and new faces invited to take over the format Pritchard made famous. Whether they can match his charisma remains to be seen, but the show’s ongoing appeal relies as much on Britain’s hidden treasures as it ever did on its legendary host.
