Charles Spencer sparked a fan reaction on Monday with a surprising admission regarding his morning routine.

Over on Instagram, the Earl posted a behind-the-scenes snapshot alongside members of his podcast team. Charles cut a dapper figure as he posed for the snap wearing a crisp blue shirt and a pair of dark trousers.

Sharing a glimpse inside his hectic schedule, Charles noted in his caption: “Quite an unusual day today: 7am in the gym with Personal Trainer; followed by a cold shower (which I now find addictive – the key is to get through the first 18 seconds).

“Then to trendy Hoxton in London to record two episodes of the second series of The Rabbit Hole Detectives podcast with co-hosts @catjarman and @revrichardcoles – as well as our producer, Simon Clancy.”

He finished by adding: “The first of our efforts today is out this Wednesday, wherever you source your podcasts. It was fun to be back together again, even if we look like a rather jaded ’70s rock group.”

Fans and friends raced to the comments section to weigh in on Charles’s post, with one writing: “I also like cold showers!!!” while a second shared: “These look great Charles! I tried a cold shower before but couldn’t take it. I just don’t like the cold, but it DOES have a bunch of health benefits.”

Other fans were delighted by the podcast host’s exciting update. “That is brilliant news. So, thrilled there’s another season. The first one was epic, loved it,” gushed one, while a second chimed in: “Absolutely love the podcast. Such a simple concept but some of the facts you all uncover are mind-blowing!”

Charles’s surprising revelation comes after the Earl paid tribute to a key family member: his ancestor Sir John Spencer. Taking to Instagram, Charles shared a photo of a wooden statue that belonged to his former relative.

Charles posted the photo on a poignant anniversary as it marked 501 years since “the founder of the Spencer family” had passed away.

“#OTD exactly 501 years ago, my ancestor Sir John Spencer died,” the father-of-seven said. “He was a businessman, sheep farmer, sheriff, and politician who was knighted by Henry VIII in 1519. Most importantly, he bought the farmland around Althorp and built @althorphouse in 1508.”