Countryfile's Adam Henson says 'it's been horrible' as he opens up on 'challenging' times

Adam Henson has candidly discussed the grim state of UK farming in 2025, acknowledging the industry's struggles during these trying times. The seasoned broadcaster, aged 59, described the period as "very challenging" for outdoor businesses, noting a significant hit to profits as the nation approaches its prime tourism season. Adam, a staple on Countryfile since 2001, delved into the emotional fortitude required for farming life, particularly when under the public gaze. He stands alongside figures like and in elevating the profile of agricultural work.

Reflecting on the current year with Minerva Magazines, he remarked: "Yeah, it's been very challenging for, well, tourist enterprises, outdoor tourist enterprises, and farms right across the UK, just because it's been horrible. We've certainly got some fields with quite a lot of crops in them that we haven't actually harvested and we never will", reports Gloucestershire Live.

"To be a farmer, I think you have to be incredibly committed. I grew up in Wiltshire and lots of my friends are farmers and they never knew whether they're going to have a good year. We plant crops not quite sure what the yields will be.

"We don't know the price we will get. And so it is a bit of a gamble. You try to do your very, very best to grow good crops and breed good animals and look after them to our best your ability. But yes, it can be tricky at times."

While life on the farm has presented challenges for Adam, his personal life has also been marred by tragedy following his wife Charlie's diagnosis with pancreatic cancer last year. Upon receiving the news, the couple decided to tie the knot just weeks later.

In light of the pancreatic cancer diagnosis, which Cancer Research UK reports has a five percent survival rate for those living beyond a decade, Charlie made the poignant decision to pen goodbye letters to be read by loved ones after her passing, as reported by the Daily Mirror.

Charlie shared with the publication: "It was both barrels. We knew people who'd died of pancreatic cancer and I absolutely felt this was going to be the end of my life. Our darkest fears were confirmed. Adam had to practically carry me down the corridor. My legs were like jelly."

Reflecting on their marriage with the same outlet, Adam revealed that their wedding ceremony was an emotionally charged experience.

He disclosed: "We cried a lot. Those vows cemented my emotions and let me say from the heart how I feel about Charlie.

"The registrar wasn't aware of our situation and said she'd never had such an emotional couple. For us, it was a way of saying goodbye to everyone.

"The room was filled with tears and emotion. Charlie wore an ivory dress and looked stunning when she walked in with her mum.

"We were both crying through the vows, and the next very emotional time for me was giving a speech at the reception."

Adam Henson will feature on Countryfile at 5.15pm today (Sunday, April 13) on BBC One.