Kaleb Cooper, one of the most recognisable faces from Clarkson’s Farm, has revealed he is dealing with a painful health condition after being diagnosed with shingles, a viral infection that can cause intense discomfort and a distinctive rash.
The 27-year-old farm worker from Chipping Norton first rose to national attention when Clarkson’s Farm premiered on Amazon Prime Video in 2021. Known for his blunt humour and practical farming knowledge, Cooper quickly became a fan favourite as he guided Jeremy Clarkson through the realities of running Diddly Squat Farm in Oxfordshire. Since that first season, he has remained a central figure in the series, appearing in every instalment that has followed.
The programme’s fourth season was released earlier this year across May and June, continuing to follow the challenges faced by Clarkson and his team as they attempt to keep the farm financially viable while navigating weather problems, local regulations and the unpredictable nature of agriculture.
Away from television, Cooper’s personal life has also been expanding. He shares three children with his partner Taya. The couple welcomed their youngest child, a son named Ashton, in September 2025, adding to their growing family.
However, the farmer has now spoken candidly about a recent health scare. In a video shared with his followers on Instagram, Cooper explained that he had been experiencing severe pain while working on the farm and later discovered he had developed shingles.
Filming the clip outdoors while moving bales of hay, Cooper admitted the condition had taken him by surprise.
“So, question,” he began, speaking directly to the camera. “I’m outside moving bales, and I’ve never been in so much pain in my life.”
He then revealed the diagnosis that had been causing the discomfort.
“I’ve got… I don’t know how I’m saying this, but I’m 27 years old and I’ve got shingles,” he said. “It is so painful.”
Cooper went on to explain that he had previously believed the illness was mostly associated with older people.
“I thought only old people get that,” he added, before quickly clarifying that he meant no offence to anyone who has experienced the condition.
Trying to describe the sensation, the Clarkson’s Farm star said it felt like a continuous tingling pain spreading through his body.
“Honestly, it’s like pins and needles continually in your body,” he told viewers.
Looking for advice, he also asked his followers if there was any way to shorten the duration of the illness.
“How do I get rid of it? Can I get rid of it really quickly?” he asked. “Like maybe take a tablet or something. I don’t know.”
Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate years later as shingles. The condition typically appears as a painful rash that develops on one side of the body or face.
According to the NHS, early treatment can help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms. People who suspect they may have shingles are usually advised to seek medical advice promptly, often through a pharmacist or by contacting NHS 111, particularly if the rash has only recently appeared.
While shingles can affect people of any age, it is more commonly seen in older adults or individuals with weakened immune systems, which is why Cooper’s diagnosis at 27 came as a surprise to him.
Despite the discomfort, the farming personality appears determined to keep working. The video he shared showed him continuing with his daily farm duties, highlighting the physically demanding nature of agricultural work even when dealing with illness.
Fans of Clarkson’s Farm will soon see Cooper back on screen. The fifth season of the Amazon Prime Video series is expected to arrive later this year. If the programme follows the release pattern of previous seasons, viewers may see new episodes around May.
The upcoming season is believed to include eight episodes, continuing to document life at Diddly Squat Farm and the evolving partnership between Clarkson, Cooper and the rest of the team.
For many viewers, Cooper has become one of the most authentic voices on the show, representing the realities of modern farming in Britain. His straightforward approach and willingness to speak openly about both work and personal challenges have helped build a strong connection with audiences.
His latest health update has already prompted an outpouring of messages from fans wishing him a swift recovery as he continues balancing farm life, family responsibilities and his growing television career.
