Tom Daley, the decorated Olympian and LGBTQ+ advocate, has revealed his first major endeavour since retiring from competitive diving. The five-time Olympic medallist is set to host Game of Wool, a new knitting competition show.
Daley announced his retirement from diving earlier this year after securing a silver medal at the Paris Olympics. Reflecting on his decision, Daley said it was “emotional” stepping onto the diving board for the last time but felt it was “the right time to call it a day.”
Now, the multi-talented star is turning his passion for knitting into a new television role. Game of Wool, which will be filmed in rural Scotland, celebrates the country’s rich knitting and wool heritage. The eight-part series marks the UK’s first-ever TV knitting competition, featuring ten ambitious knitters taking on intricate challenges.
The contestants will showcase their skills through two tasks each episode: a collaborative team knitting project and an individual creation designed to push their creative boundaries. From crafting clothes and jewellery to home décor, furniture, and even large-scale “yarn bombing” street art, the show promises innovative wool-based artistry.
Daley’s co-hosts will include knitting icons Di Gilpin and Sheila Greenwell, who have worked with prestigious fashion houses such as Chanel, Vivienne Westwood, and Paul Smith. Together, they will guide and judge the contestants as they compete for the title of Game of Wool champion.
Daley first captured public attention for his knitting at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, where his crafting during competitions became a viral sensation. On hosting the series, Daley shared:
“I am very excited, and slightly nervous, to be taking on my first ever hosting role on a project that encompasses everything I’m passionate about. I adore all things knitting and encourage everyone to pick up some knitting needles and give it a go! I cannot wait to see the creations our knitters will weave together and hope this inspires people at home to get involved too!”
As Daley trades the diving board for knitting needles, fans eagerly await the series, which promises to be a celebration of creativity, competition, and craftsmanship.
