Is Spudman Dead? Who is Spudman?
by Swetha P | Updated Feb 16, 2024
Is Spudman Dead?
No, Spudman, also known as Ben Newman, is not dead. He's very much alive and continues to operate his jacket potato business from his trailer in Tamworth, Staffordshire.
Despite facing health challenges stemming from renal dialysis since 2010, Ben Newman, popularly known as Spudman, continues to exhibit unwavering dedication to his customers and philanthropic endeavors.
His recent hospitalization in January 2024 may have momentarily interrupted his activities, causing understandable concern among his supporters. However, his swift recovery and subsequent discharge from the hospital underscore Ben's resilience and steadfast commitment to his cause.
Notably, his determination to resume fundraising efforts for Kidney Research UK despite personal health setbacks serves as a testament to his unwavering spirit and enduring dedication to making a positive impact in the face of adversity.
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Who is Spudman?
Spudman, whose real name is Ben Newman, is a jacket potato seller based in Tamworth, Staffordshire. He gained unexpected fame on TikTok, where he has amassed a massive following of 2.6 million people. Ben's journey to social media stardom began when he joined TikTok during the Covid-19 pandemic to promote his business.
Initially intended to drum up local business, his videos showcasing his daily activities, culinary advice, and interactions with customers quickly went viral, propelling him to international fame. Ben, aged 39, operates a catering truck where he serves up jacket potatoes with a variety of fillings, including classics like chicken curry, tuna mayo, and chili con carne.
Due to his online popularity, queues of hundreds of people, both residents and visitors from far-flung places like Australia, New Zealand, the US, and Malaysia, form outside his trailer in Tamworth. His popularity on TikTok has also led to collaborations with other businesses and events, such as pitching his van at Drayton Manor Park.
Spudman's Personal Life and Career
Ben Newman's journey as Spudman is not just about selling jacket potatoes; it's a story deeply entrenched in familial tradition and community spirit. Growing up in a family deeply involved in the potato trade, Ben inherited not just a business but also when he took over the pitch at the tender age of 18.
For over two decades, he has been a familiar face in Tamworth, serving up hearty jacket potatoes and becoming an integral part of the local culinary landscape. His dedication to his business and community shines through not only in his delicious offerings but also in his efforts to support and promote local businesses through his TikTok platform, turning his humble food van into a social media sensation.
Beyond his entrepreneurial pursuits, Ben's personal life underscores his resilience and compassion. As a father of nine children, he juggles the demands of family life alongside the challenges he faces, including undergoing renal dialysis since 2010.
Obstacles, Ben remains unwavering in his commitment to his passion for serving mouthwatering jacket potatoes to his loyal customers. Furthermore, his active involvement in raising funds and awareness for Kidney Research UK exemplifies his dedication to giving back to the community, showcasing not only his culinary prowess but also his altruistic spirit.
Is Spudman Dead? - FAQs
Spudman sells up to 1,500 jacket potatoes a day.
Spudman's trailer is located in Tamworth, Staffordshire, outside the medieval St Editha's Parish Church.
Spudman's wife, Sarah Simpson, supports his business endeavors and is affectionately known as "Spud wife."
Spudman gained fame on TikTok by posting videos showcasing his daily activities, culinary advice, and interactions with customers, which quickly went viral.
Spudman supports Kidney Research UK and raises money and awareness for the organization through his business activities.