Penny Lancaster, also known as Lady Stewart, is a prominent English model, photographer, and television personality, famously married to rock legend Sir Rod Stewart since 2007. Beyond her high-profile marriage, she is widely recognized as a permanent panelist on the ITV daytime show Loose Women and for her groundbreaking role as a Special Constable with the City of London Police, a position she officially qualified for in April 2021 at the age of 50. In 2026, she remains a leading advocate for women’s health through her work with Menopause Mandate and continues to serve the public, having been on active duty for major historic events including the state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II and the coronation of King Charles III.
Early Life and Modeling Career
Born on March 15, 1971, in Redbridge, Essex, Penelope Claire Lancaster was raised in a supportive environment but faced early challenges, including undiagnosed dyslexia and school bullying. Her artistic journey began with ballet and modern dance at the age of six, which eventually led her to the London College of Fashion to pursue a career in the modeling industry.
Standing at 6 ft 1 in, Lancaster became a sought-after model for over 15 years, most notably becoming the face of the designer lingerie brand Ultimo in 2002. During this period, she also trained as a fitness instructor and professional photographer, skills that allowed her to maintain independence and eventually led to her first meeting with her future husband.
The Special Constable: Policing London
One of the most remarkable chapters of Lancaster’s life began in 2019 after she participated in the Channel 4 reality series Famous and Fighting Crime. The experience of shadowing real police officers inspired her to volunteer for the City of London Police, where she underwent rigorous training to become a fully qualified Special Constable.
In her role, Lancaster commits approximately 200 hours a year to the force, often working one shift per week. She has been vocal about the “rewarding nature” of public service, specifically focusing on protecting vulnerable individuals and managing public safety during large-scale London events. Her presence on the beat has helped bridge the gap between celebrities and community service, proving that public figures can have a tangible impact on local security.
Notable Policing Duties
Queen Elizabeth II’s Funeral (2022): Manned the barriers near the Queen Victoria Memorial during the funeral procession.
Coronation of King Charles III (2023): Served as part of the security detail during the historic royal event.
Bridge Patrols: Frequently patrols London’s bridges, assisting individuals in mental health crises and preventing potential self-harm incidents.
Television Career and Loose Women
Penny Lancaster has been a staple of British television for over two decades. She first joined the panel of ITV’s Loose Women in 2014, where her candid discussions about family life, health, and social issues made her a fan favorite. After a brief hiatus, she returned to the show permanently in 2024 and continues to appear in 2026.
Beyond daytime TV, she has showcased her versatility on several competitive reality shows. In 2007, she competed in the fifth series of Strictly Come Dancing, and in 2021, she reached the quarter-finals of Celebrity MasterChef. These appearances have allowed the public to see her competitive spirit and her willingness to step outside her comfort zone.
Personal Life and Marriage to Sir Rod Stewart
The love story between Penny Lancaster and Sir Rod Stewart began in 1999 when she was hired to photograph his band during a tour. Despite a 26-year age gap, the couple became one of the most enduring pairs in the entertainment industry, eventually marrying in a stunning ceremony in Portofino, Italy, in June 2007.
Together, they have two sons: Alastair (born 2005) and Aiden (born 2011). Lancaster is also a dedicated stepmother to Rod’s six other children from previous relationships. She has often spoken about the “daunting but rewarding” challenge of blending such a large family, emphasizing that mutual respect and “date nights” are the secrets to their long-lasting marriage.
Advocacy and the “Menopause Mandate”
In recent years, Lancaster has become one of the UK’s most vocal advocates for menopause awareness. After being misdiagnosed with depression during her own perimenopause journey, she joined forces with other celebrities to launch Menopause Mandate, a campaign group dedicated to improving support and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) access for women.
In 2026, she continues to lobby the government for better workplace policies, including “menopause leave” and mandatory education for GPs. Her efforts have been instrumental in destigmatizing the conversation around women’s health, ensuring that middle-aged women feel empowered rather than “deflated” by their biological changes.
Practical Information and Career Highlights
Career Timeline and Key Dates
1971: Born in Redbridge, Essex.
2002: Becomes the face of Ultimo lingerie.
2007: Marries Sir Rod Stewart in Italy; competes in Strictly Come Dancing.
2014: Joins the Loose Women panel.
2021: Sworn in as a Special Constable for City of London Police.
2026: Publishes her comprehensive memoir, Someone Like Me.
Major Charity Affiliations
Menopause Mandate: Patron and high-profile campaigner.
The King’s Foundation: Official Ambassador.
Penny for London: Ambassador helping young people in poverty.
RNIB: Vice-president of the Royal National Institute of Blind People.
FAQs
Is Penny Lancaster still a police officer?
Yes, as of 2026, Penny Lancaster continues to serve as a Special Constable with the City of London Police, typically volunteering around 200 hours per year.
How many children does Penny Lancaster have?
She has two biological sons with Sir Rod Stewart: Alastair and Aiden. She is also the stepmother to Rod’s six other children.
How did Penny Lancaster meet Rod Stewart?
They met in 1999 when Lancaster, a professional photographer at the time, was asked to take photos of Rod Stewart and his band while they were on tour.
What is Penny Lancaster’s height?
She is famously tall, standing at 6 feet 1 inch (185 cm).
What is the “Menopause Mandate”?
It is a campaign group co-founded by Lancaster and other public figures to advocate for better healthcare and workplace support for women going through menopause.
Did Penny Lancaster write a book?
Yes, her memoir titled Someone Like Me was published in early 2026, detailing her life, career, and personal struggles with dyslexia and trauma.
Which police force does Penny Lancaster work for?
She is a member of the City of London Police, which is the force responsible for the “Square Mile” financial district of London.
Was Penny Lancaster on Strictly Come Dancing?
Yes, she appeared in the fifth series (2007) and was partnered with professional dancer Ian Waite.
Is Penny Lancaster dyslexic?
Yes, she was diagnosed with dyslexia later in life and has since become an advocate for literacy and support for those with learning difficulties.
What is Penny Lancaster’s net worth?
While her individual net worth is not publicly disclosed, she and her husband Sir Rod Stewart share a combined fortune estimated to be in the hundreds of millions.
How old is Penny Lancaster?
As of March 2026, she is 54 years old.
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