How did Delia Smith help make Mary Berry a millionaire? The sweet story behind their lifelong friendship

Legendary British cook Dame Mary Berry has opened up about how fellow culinary icon Delia Smith played a surprising role in boosting her career and wealth.

The 90-year-old food star, best known for her time as a judge on The Great British Bake Off, revealed in a new interview with Radio Times that Delia’s advice decades ago had a lasting impact on her financial success.

Mary, who has lived with her husband Paul Hunnings in the scenic Henley-on-Thames area of South Oxfordshire since 2019, reflected warmly on her friendship with Delia and how one honest conversation changed everything.

“Delia was absolutely brilliant,” she recalled. “She and her husband, Michael Wynn Jones, came to stay with us, and we talked about all sorts of things. You know, you’re told never to discuss money, sex, or religion—but we did discuss money!”

According to Mary, it was during that candid chat that Delia discovered her friend wasn’t being properly compensated for her writing. Without hesitation, Delia stepped in to help.

“She said, ‘You’re not being paid enough for your writing. I know an agent—Felicity Bryan—and I’ll call her tonight.’ And the very next day, I received a postcard from Felicity asking to meet. I’ve been with her agency ever since,” Mary explained.

That piece of career-changing advice soon translated into higher pay and better publishing deals for the woman Britain lovingly calls the Queen of Cakes. As The Telegraph reported, Mary’s earnings “rose nicely” following Delia’s intervention—proof that even in the fiercely competitive world of food television, genuine mentorship still exists.

Both women are revered as trailblazers who helped shape the landscape of British home cooking. Delia Smith’s pragmatic, no-fuss recipes and Mary Berry’s warm, family-centered approach have each inspired generations of cooks.

Beyond television fame, Dame Mary continues to make public appearances and share her culinary wisdom. Recently, she was invited to officially open Audley Shiplake Meadows, a luxury retirement village located near Henley.

Speaking at the event, she said, “Having called this area home for the past seven years, I know the new homeowners will be very happy here. Whether they’re tending to their allotments, exploring the countryside, or enjoying a day out in Henley, they’ll find so much to love.”

Even at 90, Mary shows no signs of slowing down. Her trademark optimism, grace, and devotion to her craft continue to inspire millions. And, as her story reveals, a little help from a friend—especially one named Delia—can make a world of difference.

FAQs

Q: How did Delia Smith help Mary Berry become more successful?
A: Delia introduced Mary to a literary agent, Felicity Bryan, who helped her negotiate better pay and publishing deals—leading to significant career growth.

Q: How long has Mary Berry lived in Henley?
A: She has lived in the Henley area of South Oxfordshire with her husband since 2019.

Q: How old is Mary Berry now?
A: Mary Berry is 90 years old.

Q: What did Mary Berry do before Bake Off?
A: Before joining The Great British Bake Off, she was a food writer, cookbook author, and television presenter with decades of experience in home cooking.

Q: Is Mary Berry still active in public life?
A: Yes. She continues to write, appear at events, and engage with fans through media appearances and community activities.