The Untold Story Behind Ant Anstead’s Departure from Wheeler Dealers and What’s Next

Ant Anstead’s time on Wheeler Dealers brought a fresh wave of excitement to car restoration fans worldwide.

But after just three seasons, the beloved mechanic shocked many by stepping away from the show.

What really happened to Ant, Mike Brewer, and Ed China?

And where is Ant now?

This story goes beyond the screen, revealing the personal and professional struggles that shaped his journey.

Wheeler Dealers redefined car restoration TV by ditching the traditional garage setup and traveling to find and revive neglected vehicles.

When the show moved from the UK to California in 2017, it introduced Ant Anstead as the new lead mechanic.

Ant quickly became a fan favorite, admired for his skill, charisma, and genuine passion for cars.

Yet, despite his popularity, his tenure lasted only three seasons, leaving fans wondering about the reasons behind his departure.

Before his TV fame, Ant led a fascinating life.

He served as one of the youngest armed officers in the UK, earning two commendations for bravery during six years in law enforcement.

Parallel to his policing career, he was a semi-professional football player, competing in over 700 games across 17 years.

This diverse background showcased his dedication and resilience long before he ever picked up a wrench on camera.

When Ant joined Wheeler Dealers, he faced a major life decision: relocating from the UK to California.

This move coincided with his divorce from his first wife, a personal upheaval that likely influenced his willingness to embrace change.

His chemistry with co-host Mike Brewer was undeniable, creating a dynamic that fans adored.

However, the show’s decision to return to the UK for its 17th season in 2021 presented a new dilemma for Ant — he did not want to move back.

Ant announced his exit via Instagram, explaining that the show would be returning to the UK and that Mark “Elvis” Priestly would take over as the new mechanic.

This wasn’t the first time relocation issues affected the show’s lineup; Ed China, the original mechanic, had left under similar circumstances years before.

The pattern highlighted how the show’s shifting locations impacted its stars’ lives.

During his time in California, Ant’s personal life saw both joy and heartbreak.

He married TV personality Christina Anstead in 2018, and they welcomed a son, Hudson.

But the marriage ended in separation announced on Instagram in 2020, with the official divorce finalized nine months later.

Fans were devastated by the news, and Ant himself faced harsh criticism and emotional struggles during this period.

The toll of these personal challenges was significant.

Ant opened up about how the stress affected his sleep and diet, and how fatherhood became his anchor through turbulent times.

His love for his son Hudson was a recurring theme in interviews, showing how family became his priority after leaving Wheeler Dealers.

Despite stepping back from the spotlight, Ant didn’t disappear from the industry.

Post-Wheeler Dealers, Ant has been involved in various new projects, including World’s Greatest Cars, Celebrity I.O.U., and Joy Ride.

While details remain under wraps, these ventures indicate he is still passionate about automotive and television work.

His friendship with Mike Brewer remains strong, a testament to the genuine bonds formed during their time on the show.

Fans eagerly await more opportunities to see Ant’s expertise and personality on screen.

His journey from law enforcement to football, to becoming a beloved TV mechanic, and now a devoted father navigating life’s ups and downs, paints a picture of a man who has grown far beyond his on-screen persona.

Ant Anstead’s story is a reminder that behind the engines and restorations, real people face real challenges.

His resilience and ongoing passion continue to inspire, promising that this isn’t the end of his story, but rather a new chapter unfolding.