Gary Pe also has a passion for singing(Image: (Image: BBC))

Gary Pe from Bargain Hunt talks life beyond the screen from cherished memories to singing talents

by · DevonLive

Bargain Hunt returns to BBC One, with antiques aficionado Gary Pe imparting his knowledge to both the red and blue teams. His passion for collectables traces back to his formative years spent in the Philippines.

He reminisced, "There is a strong storytelling tradition," where "often, these stories would revolve around objects that have been passed on from generation to generation".

Gary fondly recalled the influence of family heritage, saying: "There was no better weaver of tales or keeper of old objects than my own grandmother. She kept everything because they were full of 'recuerdos' (memories), she said. And her memory was elephantine!".

He spoke of the allure of ancient artefacts, noting, "The older the object, the more vivid the memories, the more fascinating the stories. Often, they would turn into epic reminiscences."

Gary Pe grew up in the Philippines(Image: (Image: BBC))

Pe shared his perspective on the antique world with Source Vintage Antiques: "Now what child doesn't love a good story? From that point, I began to look at old objects as keepers of secrets, of tales just waiting to be unlocked. I was hooked."

His journey has led to incredible discoveries, including a Picasso ceramic wall plaque found in a Swedish junk shop, which ultimately made its way to Christie's in New York.

Despite the treasures he's come across, he still harbours seller's remorse over a choice he made during his time in Montreal. There, he had painstakingly amassed a significant Moorcroft ceramics collection from garage sales, boasting rare and early patterns.

Regretfully, he confessed, "I sold them all before moving to the UK in 1992, fearing breakages if I took them with me. Big mistake."

Gary also harbours a deep affection for nature and the welfare of animals, aside from showcasing his vocal prowess as an able singer.

Having a penchant for serenading, he runs a YouTube channel featuring several of his musical performances, dubbing himself an "occasional crooner".

Gary Pe with the red team(Image: (Image: BBC))

The celebrity expressed his appreciation for his Bargain Hunt colleagues across social platforms like X, which was previously known as Twitter, posting a collection of photos featuring the cast and crew.

He remarked: "The real heroes of Bargain Hunt- the production team and crew who do all the hard graft."

Bargain Hunt airs on BBC One on weekdays at 12.15pm