Ty Pennington, the charismatic and talented DIY TV personality, has had an eventful career and life journey. Known for his rugged charm and hosting various home improvement shows, he has become a beloved figure in the world of home renovation and design.
Ty Pennington, born Gary Tygert Burton, initially had dreams of being a graphic designer and worked in construction to support himself while attending art school. However, a near-fatal car accident at the age of 27 derailed his modeling career, leading him to embrace carpentry. This shift eventually led him to the world of television.
Pennington gained fame as a builder on “Trading Spaces,” a show that challenged conventional ideas of home renovations. His career continued to soar as he hosted “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” for nearly a decade, earning two Primetime Emmy Awards in the process.
Although his role on “Extreme Makeover” was later taken over by Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Pennington remains grateful for the experience and the impact it had on his life. He returned for two seasons of the “Trading Spaces” revival in 2018-2019.
In addition to his television career, Pennington has authored two books, “Good Design Can Change Your Life: Beautiful Rooms, Inspiring Stories” and “Ty’s Tricks: Home Repair Secrets Plus Cheap and Easy Projects to Transform Any Room.” He is also known for being open about his ADHD and advocating for awareness of the disorder.
Despite facing personal challenges, including a DUI charge and probation in 2007, Pennington has continued to be a positive force in the world of home improvement and design. He married Kellee Merrell, a Vancouver social media manager, in 2021 and frequently entertains his fans with his humorous Instagram videos.
In a thoughtful Instagram post titled “Thoughts on aging,” Pennington addressed criticisms about his appearance and age. He emphasized the importance of practicing social graces toward both men and women and celebrated the wisdom and happiness that come with age.
Ty Pennington’s career has spanned over two decades, and he continues to be a source of inspiration and positivity for fans and viewers interested in home renovation and design. Whether through his television appearances or his social media antics, he remains a beloved figure in the DIY community.
