Dick Strawbridge has addressed the possibility of a spin-off series from “Escape to the Chateau” that would feature his son, James Strawbridge, and focus on their shared expertise in self-sufficiency. The discussion follows the immense popularity of the original Channel 4 program, which saw Dick and Angel Strawbridge gain national recognition for their creative home makeovers and positive outlook on life.
The father-and-son team were questioned about a potential spin-off show that would incorporate the central themes from their book, “Practical Self-Sufficiency: The Complete Guide to Sustainable Living.” Last year, the query was posed to them by Chris Evans, host of Virgin Radio’s breakfast show, during an appearance on his own program with Sky. Evans directly asked whether there would be a television series built around the book, referencing the fact that “Escape to the Chateau” was entering its eighth season while the Kardashians were on their 18th.
Dick Strawbridge responded to the comparison with the Kardashians by saying, “Yes we are, oh my goodness catching up with the Kardashians.” When Evans pressed James on the possibility of a spin-off, James Strawbridge stated that filming with his father and Angel Strawbridge on “Escape to the Chateau” had been a lot of fun. He added that he believes the family already handles the self-sufficiency aspect of things in their personal lives, and that a new show would cover sustainability in greater detail.
Dick Strawbridge elaborated on the concept, noting that it is not about a specific show but rather about living a normal life and doing what needs to be done. During the interview, Chris Evans pointed to a section of the book on hydroponics, asking for an explanation in plain English. Dick clarified that hydroponics is water-based, involving no soil, which led to a discussion about James obtaining confiscated equipment from the police at a discount to grow vegetables. Evans remarked on the book’s breadth, noting that it covers gardening, mulching, and even bicycle puncture repair, to which Dick chuckled and said, “You have to be able to do everything, we’re not one trick pony.”
James Strawbridge observed the contrast in their living situations, stating, “He lives in a castle and I live in a terraced house.” Dick quickly interjected, suggesting that James’s house is likely more expensive than his castle, reinforcing the idea that the self-sufficiency advice applies regardless of where one lives. Chris Evans then asked Dick how he acquired his extensive skills, specifically questioning how one begins to manage a wood. Dick explained that his method involves chopping wood, putting it in a shed, and burning it.
Dick offered an alternative solution for woodland management, describing how one can identify trees that require thinning with a spray can, though he admitted he lets nature take its course. He noted that recent storms have felled many trees, providing him with years of wood. When Evans asked whether Dick was self-taught or if his father had taught him, Dick responded that his father never did those things. Asked where his skills originated, Dick simply replied, “Necessities, to put it simply, you do it.” Filming for series 8 of “Escape to the Chateau” is expected to begin this year and air in the later months, though a concrete timeline for any potential spin-off show remains unknown.
