Cathryn Sealey, who also works under the name Kathy Nettles, is an accomplished painter whose work quietly commands attention. Although she’s married to actor and writer John Nettles as his second wife, her artistic life has its own independent presence apart from his public profile.
In July 2017 Sealey launched her Kathy Nettles Art gallery, a milestone that formally introduced her to the wider art scene. From that point onward her paintings have been shown at exhibitions across the UK and overseas.
Her first solo show, “Cornwall, Colour and Coast,” and later projects such as the collaboration “Edge of Land and Sea” reflect a consistent fascination with landscape and the natural world, rendered with a vivid sense of place.
Giving back is also part of her practice—one of her recent exhibitions supported the Mare and Foal Sanctuary, using art to raise funds for the charity.
Now based in Holsworthy, Devon, Cathryn Sealey continues to produce work that combines bold colour and careful observation. Here are some interesting facts about her.
From Nutritional Science to a Life in Painting
Before launching her artistic career, Cathryn Sealey completed a BSc in Nutritional Medicine Therapy at Thames Valley University. Although she trained and worked as a nurse, she ultimately chose to follow her interest in painting and move away from the healthcare profession.
To develop her technique, Sealey studied painting at the Newlyn School of Art between 2018 and 2023. She also completed a year-long Professional Landscape Mentoring course, which helped sharpen her artistic approach and voice.
Together with her husband John, Sealey is active in supporting the Mare and Foal Sanctuary; Nettles serves as a patron, reflecting their shared commitment to charitable causes.
How Their Relationship Grew Over Four Decades
Cathryn and John Nettles married in July 1995 in Evesham, Worcestershire, beginning a partnership that traces back to the early 1980s when they first crossed paths at a showbiz gathering. Cathryn, who wasn’t part of the entertainment industry, had been invited to an event hosted by the late comedian Les Dawson, and Nettles was immediately taken by her looks and manner.
Talking about their first meeting, Nettles once said,
Cathryn had been invited by one of the cast, and I was bowled over by how beautiful she was. So when I saw Les boring her rigid with a very rude joke about a farting turtle, I asked her if she wanted a drink and whisked her away.
That small act of taking her away from an awkward moment sparked a friendship that deepened over time and ultimately turned into romance. The couple exchanged vows in a private ceremony near Stratford-on-Avon in 1995, formalising a long-standing bond.
After their wedding they bought and renovated a barn close to Stratford, creating a comfortable home where they have lived for many years with their dogs.
Before marrying Sealey, John was previously married to casting director Joyce Middleton from 1966 to 1979. They had a daughter named Emma Nettles during that marriage.
Children and Family Connections
Cathryn and John do not have children together, but Cathryn has developed a warm relationship with her stepdaughter Emma. Reflecting on her stepmother, Emma once said,
Cathy is a wonderful lady. Dad is so happy, and if anyone deserves happiness, he does.
John Vivian Drummond Nettles — Cathryn’s Husband and His Career
John Vivian Drummond Nettles, Cathryn’s husband, is a celebrated English actor and writer. He was born on October 11, 1943, in St Austell, Cornwall. Although his mother was an Irish nurse during World War II, he was adopted and raised by Eric and Elsie Nettles.
Nettles discovered a love for performance while studying history and philosophy at the University of Southampton. After finishing his degree he turned to acting, joining the Royal Court Theatre to begin his professional stage work.
Early television and film appearances helped build his screen résumé, with parts in series such as “A Family at War” and “Enemy at the Door.”
His profile rose significantly in the early 1980s when he was cast as Jim Bergerac in the crime drama Bergerac. The series proved very popular, running for 87 episodes and continuing until 1991.
Following Bergerac, Nettles returned to the stage and enjoyed a successful period with the Royal Shakespeare Company, further establishing his theatre credentials.
In 1995 he assumed the role of Detective Chief Inspector Tom Barnaby in the murder-mystery series Midsomer Murders, a part that brought him international recognition. He departed the show in 2011 after appearing in 81 episodes, leaving a strong legacy.
Beyond those signature roles, Nettles has made numerous guest TV appearances and explored radio comedy. He also had recurring parts in historical drama, including roles in Poldark in 2016 and 2017, reinforcing his long-standing place in British entertainment.
