About Stephen Mulhern
Before fame
Stephen Mulhern was born on April 4, 1977, in Stratford, East London, and attended St Bonaventure's School in Forest Gate. His parents worked as market traders, and he helped his father sell products at Petticoat Lane Market from childhood. These experiences taught him how to engage an audience and develop confidence in front of strangers.
His interest in magic began around age 11, encouraged by tricks his father showed him. By 17, he had become the youngest member of The Magic Circle. He also worked as a Redcoat entertainer at Butlin's Minehead for two years, developing his stage performances.
Winning Jonathan Ross's The Big Big Talent Show helped secure his appearance at the 1997 Royal Variety Performance. He subsequently moved into children's television, eventually presenting programs including Finger Tips and Tricky TV.
Trivia and noteworthy facts
Stephen became the youngest member of the prestigious Magic Circle at age 17, establishing his reputation as a talented young magician.
Before becoming a familiar television personality, he worked for two years as a Redcoat entertainer at Butlin's Minehead.
By 2024, he had performed at the Royal Variety Performance four times, a milestone celebrated on his official website.
He presented Britain's Got More Talent for 13 series, from 2007 through 2019.
He became the presenter of ITV's revived Deal or No Deal in 2023, succeeding original UK host Noel Edmonds.
His debut children's book, Max Magic, was released in 2022. The third installment, Max Magic: The Incredible Holiday Hideout, followed in May 2024.
He co-created and produced Astonishing, a magic and illusion show developed exclusively for P&O Cruises.
In September 2026, STV Studios announced that ITV had commissioned a 12th series of Celebrity Catchphrase, with Stephen returning as host for ten new episodes, including a Soccer Aid special.
Family life
Stephen Mulhern grew up in a close-knit family in East London. His mother, Maureen Mulhern, and his late father, Christopher Mulhern, worked as market traders. Christopher encouraged Stephen's interest in magic and helped him develop his early performance skills. His father died in 2024.
Stephen has publicly confirmed that he has two brothers, Vinny and Christopher, and a sister, Susie. He has spoken warmly about his parents' hard work and the importance of family support throughout his career.
In interviews, he has described maintaining close relationships with his siblings and regularly turning to them for advice. He generally keeps his private relationships away from public attention.
Associated with
Ant McPartlin — Worked with Stephen on Ant & Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway and the travel special The Accidental Tourist.
Declan Donnelly — Longtime professional collaborator through ITV entertainment programs and The Accidental Tourist.
Holly Willoughby — Co-presented children's television programs, Dancing on Ice, and the revival of You Bet! with Stephen.
Emma Willis — Co-hosted a Sunday morning radio program with Stephen on the Heart network.
Amanda Holden — Appeared alongside Stephen during his 2024 Royal Variety Performance.
Alan Carr — Participated in Stephen's 2024 Royal Variety Performance magic act.
