The Hotel Inspector has made its comeback to Channel 5 for a 21st series, much to the delight of viewers. The documentary programme, which first launched in 2005, follows renowned hotelier and entrepreneur Alex Polizzi as she visits struggling British hotels, offering guidance and recommendations to owners in a bid to reverse their fortunes.

Alex took over presenting duties in 2008, succeeding Ruth Watson. She has subsequently appeared in 19 series of The Hotel Inspector, as well as four editions of The Hotel Inspector: Returns, and one series of Hotel Inspector: Checking In, Checking Out.

The latest episode is scheduled to air on Thursday, March 12, with Alex travelling to the tranquil Suffolk village of Monks Eleigh to assist publicans Steven and Julie, whose lifelong ambition of operating a village pub has become increasingly challenging. The Swan is the village's only pub and the couple are determined to make their aspiration succeed. However, having been forced to shut the kitchen, they're finding it difficult to attract customers without providing food, reports the Mirror.

As the documentary series continues to air, here's everything you need to know about its presenter Alex Polizzi.

Alex was born in Poplar, London on August 28, 1971, making her 54 years old. Hospitality appears to be in the TV star's blood, as she hails from a distinguished family within the sector.

Her grandfather was the Scottish hotelier Lord Forte, who established the Forte Group, renowned for incorporating brands such as Travelodge. Meanwhile, Alex's mother, Olga, works as an interior designer and previously served as a councillor for Westminster City Council. Alex's father, Count Alessandro Polizzi, came from Italian aristocracy. Tragically, he lost his life in a car accident in 1980.

In 1997, Alex and her then-partner, Marcus Miller, established a wholesale bakery called Millers Bespoke Bakery, which provided bread to prestigious retailers including Selfridges, Harvey Nichols, and Fortnum and Mason. She subsequently managed a hotel in Milton Abbot, near Tavistock in Devon, before refurbishing and opening The Star in Alfriston, East Sussex, in 2021, working alongside her mother.

As well as presenting The Hotel Inspector, Alex has also fronted the BBC Two series, Alex Polizzi: The Fixer, which centred on her revitalising family enterprises, extending beyond just hotels. The television personality has also featured in programmes such as Alex Polizzi's Secret Italy, Alex Polizzi: Chefs on Trial, Spectacular Spain with Alex Polizzi, and Our Dream Hotel.

Last year, Alex's net worth was estimated to be between a substantial £8 million and £10 million.

This follows the star's candid revelation about her separation from her husband, Marcus, in a recent episode of The Hotel Inspector. Discussing the toll of operating a hotel on her private life, Alex admitted: "I opened a hotel four years ago. It signalled the end of my marriage, I almost lost my mind and it's quite hard work... And I'm a professional."

Alex and Marcus notably tied the knot in 2007, following a 12-year engagement. The couple are parents to two children, teenagers Olga and Rocco.

The Hotel Inspector airs Thursdays at 9pm on Channel 5

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