Netflix's reality TV makeup competition show glamorous version of The Great British Baking Show and easily just as soothing and comforting.
Both seasons have included two judges – Val Garland and Dominic Skinner – who bring their long-established makeup experience and expertise to decide who Britain's next makeup star will be. It's clear from the beginning they have earned their ranking as judges. Val is the L'Oréal Paris Global Makeup Director and Dominic is the Global Senior Artist for MAC Cosmetics. You may have noticed, though, that there is also a host of the show whose background and makeup expertise isn't as clear. Stacey Dooley is the red-headed host who reminds the MUAs (makeup artists) of how much time they have left to complete their challenge and lets them know who didn't impress the judges and made it to the dreaded red face-off chairs. But there's a question on many of our minds: Who is Stacey Dooley?
It turns out Stacey does have some background in the world of makeup artistry. She gained her big career break while she was doing promotions for makeup and perfume at Luton airport. From there, her career as a documentary filmmaker and journalist took off when she worked on the BBC Three documentary Blood, Sweat and T-Shirts. The film investigated the working conditions of Indian sweatshops, and it led to her getting her own series, Stacey Dooley Investigates, according to What's On TV. As the title suggests, the series follows Stacey as she digs into current affairs issues, particularly those affecting young people around the world. Since 2009, the program has covered issues such as sex trafficking in Cambodia, domestic violence, and cannabis smugglers. Her investigative journalism in dangerous environments has made her known for being a courageous and fearless documentarian. Her work also got her appointed as a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE), as part of the Queen's birthday honor list in 2018, according to Metro.
Fans may be surprised to learn that the host is also a bestselling author. Stacey recorded her experiences from her investigative work in her book On the Front Line With the Women Who Fight Back, which was published in 2018. In the book, she draws from her experiences around the world to explore the lives of women today and the injustices she has witnessed. The book quickly became a Sunday Times bestseller and has received glowing reviews. The 33-year-old also gained prominence when she won the 16th season of popular British dance competition show, Strictly Come Dancing, in 2018. Glow Up fans might recognize the title of the BBC show, as it was the location for one of their professional challenges on season 2. On Strictly Come Dancing, the reality TV show host was matched to be dance partners with professional dancer Kevin Clifton. The dancing duo turned out to the perfect match and not only won the show, but also developed a relationship off-screen. The pair have been dating since 2019.
While Stacey Dooley's career has taken many turns, it's interesting to see it come full circle from her working in makeup promotions in Luton to host of the hit makeup show Glow Up. Through all of the tears and drama on the show, Stacey remains calm and empathetic towards the competitors. It appears she was able to apply her years in hard-hitting journalism to remain composed during times of stress and tension on the show. Although she doesn't have the makeup expertise to dole out the coveted "Ding Dong!" from Val, she is a delight to watch. Hopefully she continues to take time away from her investigations to host the show for the duration of its run.
Sources: What's On TV, Metro