Vernon Charles Kay was born on 28 April 1974 in Bolton, Greater Manchester, England. He is the son of Norman Kay, a lorry driver, and Gladys Kay. Growing up in Bolton with his brother Stephen, Kay developed an interest in sports and entertainment before entering media.

He attended St Joseph’s RC High School in Horwich and later St John Rigby College. Kay began studying Environmental Science at Manchester Metropolitan University, but his career direction changed after he was discovered for modelling work in the mid-1990s.

Kay’s television career began after modelling success led to presenting opportunities. He gained popularity as a presenter on Channel 4’s T4 between 2000 and 2005 and later hosted a range of entertainment and game shows on ITV and other channels.

In 2026, Kay became the host of the BBC show, Do You Know Your Place?, co-hosting with Paul Gorton. He currently lives with his wife and daughters in Buckinghamshire while continuing his broadcasting career.