Andy McConnell Biography
Andy McConnell is a renowned British glassware expert, author, and television personality. He gained prominence as the first glass specialist on the BBC’s “Antiques Roadshow,” a role he has held since 2005. McConnell has authored several authoritative books on glass, including; The Decanter: An Illustrated History of Glass from 1650 (2004), 20th Century Glass (2006) and The Decanter, Ancient to Modern (2018).
Beyond his writing and television appearances, McConnell operated Glass Etc., once Britain’s largest antique and vintage glass shop, located in Rye, East Sussex. The shop was known for its vast collection and served as a hub for glass enthusiasts until its closure in January 2021.
In addition to his professional endeavors, McConnell maintains an active online presence, engaging with a community of glass collectors and enthusiasts through his Facebook group, “Andy McConnell [at the Centre of the Glass Universe!].”
Andy McConnell Age
Andy McConnell was born in 1952, making him 72 years old as of 2024.
Andy McConnell Hometown
Andy McConnell hails from Rye, a historic town on the Sussex coast in England.
Andy McConnell Nationality/Ethnicity
Andy McConnell is British by nationality. Regarding his ethnicity, he has expressed a desire to trace his family roots, which he believes may originate from the Scottish Highlands around the mid-18th century.
Andy McConnell Early Life and Family
Andy McConnell, born in 1952, hails from a family with a notable business background. His father served as the managing director of the family’s tobacco-blending enterprise, which employed approximately 20 individuals in East London.
Family lore suggests that the McConnell lineage traces back to the Scottish Highlands during the mid-18th century. According to these accounts, his ancestors were compelled to leave Scotland, possibly during the Highland Clearances, and relocated to Ulster. They later settled in Carrickfergus, Northern Ireland, and eventually moved to Liverpool in 1848, likely influenced by the socio-economic challenges of the time.
Andy McConnell Educational Background
Specific details about Andy McConnell’s formal education are not widely documented. However, his extensive knowledge and expertise in glassware have been honed through decades of hands-on experience, research, and authorship.
Andy McConnell Wife and Children
Andy McConnell maintains a private personal life. Publicly available information does not provide details about his marital status or whether he has children.
Andy McConnell Career
Andy McConnell has established himself as a leading authority in the field of glassware, with a multifaceted career spanning journalism, authorship, television, and entrepreneurship. His journey reflects a deep passion for glass, complemented by diverse professional experiences that have enriched his expertise.
Transition from Journalism to Glass Expertise
In the 1970s, McConnell embarked on a career as a freelance rock and roll journalist, immersing himself in the vibrant music scene of Hollywood. This period honed his research and storytelling skills, which later proved invaluable in his glassware endeavors. A pivotal moment occurred in 1978 when he was invited to join Jefferson Airplane on tour. During this time, he met Günter Kramm, a Hamburg-based antiques dealer, who introduced him to the world of glass collecting. This encounter ignited McConnell’s passion for glassware, prompting a significant career shift.
Authorship and Scholarly Contributions
McConnell’s dedication to glassware led him to author several authoritative books. In 2004, he published The Decanter: An Illustrated History of Glass from 1650, a comprehensive 550-page work that explores the evolution of glass decanters over centuries. This was followed by 20th Century Glass in 2006, which delves into modern glass artistry. In 2018, he released The Decanter, Ancient to Modern, an updated and expanded edition of his earlier work, reflecting his ongoing research and discoveries in the field.
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Television Career with “Antiques Roadshow”
In 2005, McConnell joined the BBC’s “Antiques Roadshow” as its first glass specialist. Over the years, he has become a familiar face to viewers, sharing his extensive knowledge and enthusiasm for glassware. His engaging presentations have demystified the complexities of glass collecting, making the subject accessible to a broad audience. His tenure on the show has solidified his reputation as a leading expert in the field.
Entrepreneurship: Glass Etc.
In 2005, McConnell established Glass Etc., an antique and vintage glass shop located in Rye, East Sussex. The shop quickly gained recognition as Britain’s largest of its kind, boasting an extensive collection that attracted collectors and enthusiasts from across the country. Glass Etc. became a hub for those seeking unique glass pieces and served as a testament to McConnell’s curatorial expertise. The shop operated successfully until its closure in January 2021.
Lecturing and Public Engagements
Beyond his writing and television appearances, McConnell is a sought-after lecturer, known for his engaging and informative presentations on glassware. He has delivered talks at various institutions and events, sharing his insights and fostering appreciation for the art and history of glass. His lectures are characterized by spontaneity and a commitment to educating and entertaining his audience, reflecting his deep passion for the subject.
Property Renovation and Financial Ventures
In addition to his work with glass, McConnell has been involved in property renovation projects. In the late 1980s, he purchased a manoir in the Dordogne region of France for £17,000 and spent six years restoring it while renting out additional properties on the estate. Upon returning to the UK in 1994, he continued to buy, renovate, and sell properties, amassing approximately £1 million over a decade.
Advocacy and Charitable Work
McConnell is also known for his advocacy and charitable efforts. He has been vocal about environmental and humanitarian causes, using his platform to raise awareness and funds. He sets annual fundraising targets and supports various initiatives aimed at preserving the environment and aiding those in need. His commitment to these causes underscores a dedication to making a positive impact beyond his professional pursuits.
Andy McConnell Heath Battle
Andy McConnell has faced significant health challenges. Earlier this year, he revealed that he suffers from emphysema, a condition that is part of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). McConnell admitted that smoking has been his one regret, as he smoked around 30 cigarettes a day for 50 years1. This condition damages lung tissue over time, particularly the tiny air sacs known as alveoli.
Despite his health issues, McConnell continues to share his passion for glassware and antiques with viewers, although he has expressed regret over the UK’s decision to leave the European Union, which led him to spend six months abroad each winter.
Andy McConnell Net Worth
Specific details about Andy McConnell’s net worth are not publicly disclosed. However, his extensive career as a glassware expert, author, and television personality suggests a comfortable financial standing. In a 2021 interview, McConnell mentioned that he earned approximately £1 million over a decade by buying and selling antiques. Additionally, he has invested in property, which he considers one of his best financial decisions.
FAQs
Who is Andy McConnell?
Andy McConnell is a British glassware expert, author, and television personality, best known for his role as the glass specialist on the BBC’s “Antiques Roadshow.”
What books has Andy McConnell written?
He has authored several books on glassware, including The Decanter: An Illustrated History of Glass from 1650 (2004), 20th Century Glass (2006), and The Decanter, Ancient to Modern (2018).
When did Andy McConnell join the “Antiques Roadshow”?
He joined the show in 2005 as its first glass specialist.
Has Andy McConnell worked in other fields?
Yes, he has a diverse background, including roles as a freelance rock and roll journalist in Hollywood during the 1970s and as a property renovator, earning approximately £1 million over a decade through buying and selling properties.
What is Andy McConnell’s current focus?
After closing Glass Etc. in January 2021, he continues to contribute to the field of glassware through writing, lecturing, and engaging with the collector community, maintaining an active online presence.
