Russell Grant is a legendary British astrologer, media personality, and author who has remained a staple of UK television and newspapers for over four decades. As of January 2026, Russell Grant is actively continuing his career through daily syndicated horoscopes and social media engagement while undergoing a significant personal transition following a major health battle. After being diagnosed with a pituitary brain tumor in 2022 and undergoing a successful five-hour surgery in December of that year, Grant recently moved from his long-term home in Snowdonia, Wales, to a low-maintenance property in Lancashire, near Manchester, to be closer to specialist medical care. Known for his “sparkling” personality on Strictly Come Dancing and his deep expertise in the zodiac, Grant remains a leading voice in British astrology, providing daily guidance to millions through publications like The Mirror and Daily Record.
2026 Health and Lifestyle Update
The start of 2026 marks a new chapter for Russell Grant as he balances his professional output with the realities of post-surgical recovery. His move from Wales to the North West of England was a strategic decision to prioritize health accessibility.
Recent Health Milestones:
- The Brain Tumor Recovery: Since his 2022 surgery to remove a growth on his pituitary gland, Grant has been transparent about his recovery. In late 2025, he confirmed that while the surgery saved his sight, he requires ongoing medication and regular MRI scans.
- The Move to Lancashire: Grant left his home of 26 years in Wales to relocate to a two-bedroom 1930s house near Manchester. This move eliminated an “eight-hour round trip” to the specialist hospital treating his condition.
- Managing Diabetes: Grant has shared updates regarding his blood sugar levels, noting that the steroids required for his recovery have impacted his previous management of Type 2 diabetes.
Despite these challenges, Grant remains “one of the lucky ones,” using his platform to support Brain Tumour Awareness and the “Shine a Light” campaign.
The Astrology Empire: Books and Syndication
Russell Grant’s name is synonymous with British astrology. His career reached a peak in the 1980s and 90s, but his influence remains potent in the digital age of 2026.
Primary Media Outlets:
- Daily Horoscopes: He continues to provide daily astrological predictions for The Mirror, Daily Record, and WalesOnline.
- Digital Presence: Grant has pivoted significantly toward social media and premium phone lines, allowing him to maintain “limited contact” with the public while still offering personalized advice.
- Published Works: Grant is the author of over 50 books, including bestsellers like The Illustrated Dream Dictionary and The Real Counties of Britain.
His work often focuses on “Astro Tips”—short, actionable pieces of advice that accompany his longer star sign readings, tailored for the fast-paced 2026 news cycle.
Strictly Come Dancing: A Defining Legacy
While astrology made him famous, Strictly Come Dancing made Russell Grant a national treasure. His participation in the ninth series (2011) is still cited by fans as one of the most joyous runs in the show’s history.
Memorable Strictly Moments:
- The Cannon Shot: At Wembley Arena, Grant was famously “shot out of a cannon” during a routine with partner Flavia Cacace. He has since remarked that he demanded to rehearse the stunt six times because he loved it so much.
- Performance Scores: His highest-scoring dance was a Foxtrot to “Don’t Rain on My Parade,” which earned a 28 from the judges.
- Public Support: Grant was eliminated in week 8 but remained so popular that he was invited back for the 2014 Christmas Special, where he finished as a runner-up.
Historical Advocacy: The Real Counties
Beyond the stars, Russell Grant is a passionate historian and advocate for British heritage. He is the founder of the Association of British Counties (ABC), established in 1989.
Advocacy and Interests:
- County Identity: Grant has spent decades campaigning for the recognition of traditional county boundaries, arguing that administrative changes should not erase historical identities like Middlesex.
- Blue Badge Guide: He qualified as a London Blue-Badge Guide in 1999, conducting tours that explore the palaces, churches, and hidden history of the capital.
- The Lord of the Manor: In 1996, he purchased the title “Lord of the Manor of Ashford,” reflecting his deep-seated interest in the British peerage and manorial history.
The Middlesex Campaign: Protecting a 1,300-Year Legacy
Russell Grant is arguably the most passionate defender of the historic county of Middlesex. Since the administrative abolition of the Middlesex County Council in 1965, Grant has tirelessly campaigned to remind the public that while the council is gone, the county itself remains an integral part of England’s cultural fabric.
Key Advocacy Achievements:
- The Downing Street Flag: In a historic moment for the campaign, Grant successfully lobbied to have the Middlesex flag—featuring three seaxes and a Saxon crown—flown above 10 Downing Street.
- Middlesex Day (May 16): Grant was instrumental in establishing and popularizing May 16 as Middlesex Day, commemorating the bravery of the “Die-hards” (Middlesex Regiment) at the Battle of Albuhera in 1811.
- Blue Badge Expertise: As a qualified London Blue Badge Guide, Grant’s tours often highlight the “hidden” Middlesex boundaries that exist within the modern Greater London area, educating new generations on the county’s 704 AD origins.
Association of British Counties (ABC)
Founded by Grant in 1989, the Association of British Counties (ABC) is a non-political organization dedicated to the 92 historic counties of the UK. Under Grant’s presidency, the ABC has fought to separate administrative convenience from historical identity.
Major 2026 ABC Goals:
- Ordnance Survey Mapping: The ABC continues to lobby for the permanent marking of historic county borders on all official UK maps to prevent “geographical amnesia.”
- The “Real Counties” Movement: Grant’s work has successfully seen the restoration of traditional names like Rutland and Herefordshire to administrative maps, proving that local identity can triumph over bureaucratic reshuffling.
- Postal Heritage: A significant victory for the ABC was convincing the Royal Mail to include historic counties in the Postcode Address File (PAF), allowing residents to keep their traditional county identities in their addresses.
Astrology of 2026: The World Cup and Beyond
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches in North America, fans are looking to Grant for his “Star-Studded” predictions. Grant has noted that the summer of 2026 features a rare “Minor Grand Trine” involving Pluto in Aquarius, which he suggests will favor teams that embrace radical innovation over tradition.
2026 Planetary Forecasts:
- Uranus in Gemini: Grant predicts this transit (starting mid-2026) will bring a “digital revolution” in how we consume live sports, potentially seeing AI-driven astrological coaching becoming a mainstream trend.
- The Saturn-Neptune Conjunction: According to Grant, this alignment in Aries suggests a year of “hard-won truths.” For the UK, he predicts a major shift in public sentiment regarding environmental and heritage protection.
- Personal Growth: His 2026 “Astro Tips” emphasize “Digital Hygiene”—encouraging his followers to disconnect from technology and reconnect with the “grounding energy” of their historic local landscapes.
FAQs
What is Russell Grant’s connection to Middlesex?
He was born in Hillingdon, Middlesex, and has spent over 40 years campaigning to preserve the county’s identity after its administrative council was abolished in 1965.
What is the Association of British Counties?
It is a society founded by Grant in 1989 to promote the 92 historic counties of the UK as vital cultural entities.
Does Russell Grant believe in “Pet Astrology”?
Yes, he has famously offered “Pet Psychic” services, believing that the positions of the planets at birth affect the temperaments of animals just as they do humans.
What is “Middlesex Day”?
Celebrated on May 16, it marks the anniversary of the Battle of Albuhera and serves as a day for people to fly the Middlesex flag and celebrate the county’s heritage.
How many books has he written?
He has authored over 50 books covering astrology, history, dreams, and cooking.
Is Russell Grant a “Blue Badge” guide?
Yes, he qualified as a London Blue Badge Guide in 1999, which is the highest qualification for tourist guiding in the UK.
What are his predictions for the 2026 World Cup?
Grant suggests that the Pluto in Aquarius transit will favor innovative, young teams and that the tournament will be marked by unexpected technological advancements.
Has he ever been involved in politics?
While he is not a politician, he has worked closely with MPs from all parties, including Boris Johnson and Eric Pickles, to promote historic county recognition.
What is his “Astro Tip” for 2026?
He frequently advises his followers in 2026 to “Choose Focus over Temptation” and to prioritize face-to-face connections in an increasingly digital world.
Who is Doug Beaumont?
Doug Beaumont is Russell Grant’s long-term partner and manager. They have been together since 1972.
What is Russell Grant’s age in 2026?
Born on February 5, 1951, Russell Grant is 74 years old and will turn 75 in February 2026.
Is Russell Grant still doing horoscopes?
Yes, he remains a prolific astrologer, writing daily columns for major UK newspapers including The Mirror and the Daily Record.
Where does Russell Grant live now?
As of late 2025/early 2026, he lives in Lancashire, England, having moved from Snowdonia, Wales, to be closer to Manchester’s specialist hospitals.
What health issues has Russell Grant faced?
He has battled a pituitary brain tumor, skin cancer, prostate cancer, and Type 2 diabetes. He also survived two heart attacks in the mid-2000s.
Who was his partner on Strictly Come Dancing?
He was famously partnered with professional dancer Flavia Cacace. In the 2014 Christmas special, he danced with Joanne Clifton.
What is Russell Grant’s net worth?
While exact figures are private, his decades of book sales, TV appearances, and syndicated columns have established him as one of the most successful media personalities in his field.
Does he have a partner?
Yes, he has been with his partner and manager, Doug Beaumont, since 1972—a relationship spanning over 50 years.
Can I get a personal reading from Russell Grant?
Grant primarily offers advice through his premium phone lines and syndicated columns, though he occasionally engages with fans directly on social media.
What is the “Pet Psychic” service?
Launched in 2010, this service combined his astrological expertise with his love for animals, offering “readings” for people’s pets.
Is he still involved with the Association of British Counties?
Yes, he remains a staunch supporter of the ABC and continues to advocate for the preservation of traditional British counties.
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