Latest news with #Blackpool-born
Daily Mirror
19-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Christine McGuinness' shock confession after soap star 'fling'
Christine McGuinness reflects on living in the spotlight after her high-profile divorce from TV star Paddy, after rumours of a 'fling' with a top soap actress Christine McGuinness spent years being referred to as the wife of her famous comic husband, Paddy. However, after their split three years ago, she's become a force to be reckoned with in her own right — though it's been an adjustment, she admits. 'As much as my marriage was in the public eye, it kind of wasn't,' she says. 'It was known about because Paddy had been on television for years, and people knew he was married and had children, but we didn't do a lot of work together or as a family. 'We did the documentaries, which I'm so proud of, but we only ever went to the odd event and weren't all over social media. I've been separated for three years now and it's honestly taken me that time to try and get my head around why there's interest in me.' Just days after we chatted to Christine, she made front page news, reportedly enjoying a 'fun fling' with a top soap actress after the pair met at an awards bash in 2023. And while the details were lacking, the interest was very much there. But it isn't only her love life that people are fascinated by; there just seems to be something about Blackpool-born Christine, 37, that people are drawn to. Her stint on The Real Housewives Of Cheshire revealed her down-to-earth manner and quick wit, and her later appearances on ITV 's Strictly The Real Full Monty and BBC 's Pilgrimage only added to her appeal. For the former Miss Liverpool, who was given an autism and ADHD diagnosis in 2021, it doesn't always sit easy with her. She reveals that it was only after a conversation with Married At First Sight host and relationship expert Paul C Brunson that she started to accept it. 'I explained that the attention wasn't necessarily negative, it was just a lot,' she says. 'It was overwhelming me in a way that was making me want to go quiet on my social media. I was saying no to jobs and opportunities that I wanted. He basically said, 'Instead of trying to figure out why, why don't you just think that there must be something unique about you, to have all that attention on you?'" 'He pointed out that in every interview I'd done, I talked about how unique my children are, and how that's fantastic. He told me to look at myself as that unique person, as well. It made me think, 'Wow, am I one of those unique people?' — because I don't feel like it at all. 'I'd been spinning everything around in my head. Being neurodiverse, divorced and still living with my ex-husband, having three neurodiverse children... I was seeing it as 'too much' for people, and wondering if I needed to step back.' Earlier this year, Christine pulled out of Celebs Go Dating, saying she'd joined with great intentions but realised it was 'too soon' for the attention that it would invite. She returned home to her and Paddy's children, twins Leo and Penelope, 12, and eight-year-old Felicity, all of whom are autistic. That home is another source of interest, because she still lives there with Paddy, 51, 'quite happily', she says, describing the decision as 'co-parents who co-habit' for the sake of their children. This is despite the fact that the couple's divorce was finalised in October 2024. Thanks to the great success of the documentaries, Paddy And Christine McGuinness: Our Family And Autism , then Christine McGuinness: Unmasking My Autism, she's become an active campaigner for families like her's. Her goal is to spread awareness, increase education and, ultimately, make the world a more accepting place for every neurodiverse child and adult. She's currently backing a campaign by home builders Barratt Redrow, who have committed to building 100 new accessible and inclusive play areas every year. 'As a mum of three autistic children I know the struggle of trying to find places that are suitable for them,' she says. 'Not just suitable because of what there is to play with, but spaces where they feel safe, wanted and understood. 'You feel like a failure when you're not getting your children out and about enough, and your children aren't picking up social cues, and learning to play with others and communicate. 'As a parent you do anything to support them so they can grow up as independent as possible. You'll always find a brick wall that you want to bash down and you get to a point where you're exhausted – but the fight for your children never, ever stops.' The biggest upside for Christine will be greater integration for children with physical or hidden disabilities, or neurodiverse needs because, she says, 'the children are going to be the doctors, teachers, CEOs of the future, the ones including all the children who were disabled'. Christine is acutely aware of how much she wants to change, and how little time she has to do it. 'I try not to look too far ahead because it upsets me,' she says. 'I have to separate being a carer and a mum. I'll take my emotions out of it as a mum, and become a carer. I've got to make sure my children have help and support, and help people understand the need to be patient, to celebrate and support them. I'm not the only autistic mum with autistic children — there are thousands of families with exactly the same fears. 'I'm raising three children to one day live without me, and those are three children I can't live without, and that breaks my heart. But it's what makes me keep going and keep fighting. I feel extremely fortunate that I can try and help make changes that other people don't even think about.' Being at home with Leo, Penelope and Felicity is her 'safe space', she adds. 'It's my comfort zone, it's where I get my love,' she smiles. After getting her own autism diagnosis and finally understanding why she's struggled in certain aspects of life, such as building and maintaining healthy friendships, Christine threw herself into 'doing what other people do'. 'I put all my energies into trying to make friends, go to events, go to work. I went 100 miles an hour, but things like calling people up, or inviting someone for dinner don't come naturally to me. I realised it wasn't actually what I wanted. I was doing it because I thought that's what you were supposed to do. 'So now it's about me finding the balance. I'm in a good place now and I understand myself, and other people, more. I'm more selective with who I let into my life, who I share my phone number with. It's been a learning curve. I'm getting more comfortable with saying no.' It's clear that if being part of the most talked-about celebrity divorces of recent years isn't enough to make Christine run for the hills, nothing will. In fact, she says confidently, she chooses to consider any hurdle — big or small — as a lesson. 'I've learnt from every lesson — and I've had many. There have been things that people will never know about, that I'll never talk about, that have been really hard, difficult lessons. 'I can only see them as blessings because it's teaching me things. What to do, what not to do, who to trust, who not to trust. 'The biggest thing of all is what my mum has always drummed it into me but I never listened — and we should always listen to our mums, 'If you just be yourself, you can't go wrong.' That's what I'm trying to remember to do, and encouraging my children to do.' UK housebuilder Barratt Redrow has committed to delivering up to 100 new accessible and inclusive play areas a year, ensuring play for all children is the standard, not the exception. Find out more at
Daily Mirror
03-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Christine McGuinness makes huge sexuality admission as she addresses divorce
Christine McGuinness has opened up about her sexuality, admitting she has dated both men and women since she was a teenager, and has never shied away from this Christine McGuinness has admitted to dating both men and women. The former model turned reality star has dated women since she was a teenager and admits her sexuality has never been a secret. The Blackpool-born star admitted that her now ex-husband, Top Gear star Paddy, and her family had all known about her sexuality throughout her marriage. Christine and Paddy, 51, announced in 2022 that they had decided to separate after 11 years of marriage. Despite their separation, they continued to live together at their Cheshire home for the sake of their children, twins Leo and Penelope, and Felicity. Prior to dating Paddy, Christine revealed she had a "two-year situationship" – but while she's openly looking for love, she's not looking for somebody to be a step-parent for her children. Instead, she wants a connection on a more personal level for herself. "It shouldn't matter somebody's gender," she said. She went on to add: "It never mattered to me, which was why once me and my ex-husband were separated and I met people, I didn't properly date. "It was more like blurred the lines of friendships for me, that was normal. It felt comfortable because I'd done that as a teenager and I, as a teenager, I dated both men and women. My ex-husband knew, my family knew, it was never a secret for me." Speaking on the How To Fail podcast, Christine, who also appeared as a guest on The Real Housewives of Cheshire, was asked if she would label her sexuality. Despite hesitating, she insisted that she is a "free spirit." "No, and again, I've thought about it," she commented. Christine added: "A lot of people always ask me, are you a lesbian? Are you bisexual? Are you what? Is this a phase? I've always been quite a free spirit. I think that's the only word I would put on it. When I was a teenager, I'd dated boys and girls. 14/15 was probably when I had my first kisses with, with both, and I never felt it was anything different or a big deal." The TV star went on to say, "Then I think where I grew up, everyone was kind of just there for a good time." But while she's had "situationships," she and her partners have never put labels on their relationship status. "My experiences with women have been lovely, and it's not like women are better or worse," she told broadcaster Elizabeth Day. Speaking about the differences, she said: "It's simply that the connection for me is different. I need a connection now. I need something different. I really, really, honestly, I love my family, and Patrick is part of my family, and he always, always will be. But now for my next relationship, I know what I want, and I want someone for me. "I want someone that I like spending time with, we can do stuff together that we both enjoy. I want that emotional connection where I can be open and I can talk and I can be vulnerable and I can ask for help, but I can also have a laugh and just have a good time. It's not like I'm trying to find a new family unit or someone to come in and be a stepparent. I want my next relationship to be for me." But while she and Paddy still live together, she admits that they can both enjoy dating others due to the fact they are divorced. However, one thing that isn't up for discussion – neither of them overshare about their dating experiences. "We are still exes and we are still living in the same house," she said of the decision. Christine had initially signed up for Celebs Go Dating as part of her quest to find love and a connection again. However, she dramatically quit the series after explaining that the platform and attention from the show was "too soon" for her. But bosses behind the show had said that the door would always be open for Christine to return.
Daily Record
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
ITV Coronation Street Bethany Platt's soap future 'confirmed' as actress Lucy flaunts makeover
Actress Lucy Fallon, famed for her role as Bethany Platt, hasn't been seen in the ITV soap for some time, after taking time off on maternity leave. Coronation Street star Lucy Fallon, famed for her role as Bethany Platt, has flaunted a gorgeous hair transformation. In an exciting update for fans, her future on the Cobbles has also been confirmed. The actress has been taking a break from the ITV soap as she's currently on maternity leave. Lucy, 29, welcomed her second child back in January with footballer boyfriend Ryan Ledson. The couple were overjoyed to share the arrival of their daughter Nancy, with their new bundle of joy coming after they welcomed their son, Sonny, back in 2023. The new mum-of-two has since shared a number of sweet updates on social media as she basks in her baby bubble as well as enjoying her time away from the Street. In delightful news to fans, it has been confirmed she will be back, reports the Manchester Evening News. When it was revealed Lucy has signed with the talent agency Off Limits, there were reports she had decided to quit the soap altogether. However, a Coronation Street spokesperson has since confirmed to the Metro that "Lucy will be returning to filming in the summer after maternity leave, as always planned", and that "Bethany will be back on screen in October". Meanwhile, Lucy is making the most of her maternity leave with her two little ones and has been sharing what else she's been up to while she's not playing her Weatherfield alter-ego. In one of her latest posts, the Blackpool-born star shared a picture of her gorgeous hair transformation as she headed to the salon amid the current spring heatwave. Her hairdresser, Megan Whittaker, also shared a number of snaps in which Lucy posed to showcase her new do. Captioning the post, she revealed Lucy's hair secret by saying: "Beauty Works X Molly Mae. New summer shades 'Glacier Blonde' 18inch slimline tapes Colour @lorealpro #studio9 & #dialight 10.12 & 9.01." And the compliments quickly came flooding in as one fan said: "Unreal colour." Another commented: "Obsessing over this colour & blend wow." Someone else wrote: "Gorgeous." @xjeankellyx added: "Stunning." It comes after Lucy was seen showing her support for her footballer partner as he made a huge decision on his playing career. She took to social media earlier this month to reshare his news. The Preston North End midfielder confirmed that he is set to leave the club when his contract expires at the end of June. The 27-year-old joined the Championship side from Oxford in May 2018 and scored seven goals in 215 games. "I've had the best seven years that I could have asked for. "This club means so much to me," he told the club website. "I'm glad my last game for the club went as well as it did and I could have that moment with the fans at the end." Alongside the post Lucy reshared with her own following, Ryan said: "Thank you for everything @pnefcofficial To all the staff, fans and the lads, I wish all of you nothing but the best for the future. Up the Lilywhites." The soap star then went on to share a video of Ryan playing in the garden with their two-year-old son, giving a sweet glimpse into their happy family life together.
Scottish Sun
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Emmerdale's Joe Warren Plant shares rare snaps with stunning new girlfriend months after split with model
moving on Emmerdale's Joe Warren Plant shares rare snaps with stunning new girlfriend months after split with model Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) EMMERDALE soap star Joe Warren Plant has let fans have a glimpse into his new relationship following the split with his model ex. Former Dancing On Ice star Joe, 23, has delighted followers by sharing holiday snaps with his new love, Isabella. Sign up for the Entertainment newsletter Sign up 5 Joe Warren Plant with his new brunette beauty partner Credit: Instagram 5 The soap star and his new girlfriend posed for pics in Barcelona Credit: Instagram The actor, who is best-known for playing Jacob Gallagher in the rural soap, posted the sweet pictures on social media. He can be seen letting his hair down with his stunning new brunette girlfriend in a series of pictures in Barcelona. The loved-up pair enjoyed a well-need break and look happier than ever. Posing for snaps together, the star looked content with the blue-eyed brunette beauty. Tanned and toned, the pair can be seen drinking Sangria and doing some sightseeing. Fans commented: "Gorgeous couple!" A second added: "Lovely couple Joe. Hope you both have a great time." A third penned: "Beautiful photos and you're both gorgeous!" Plant previously dated Anna Norton for over two years and bought a house together and welcomed their 'first child' – a cat called Wolfie. After moving in together in Blackpool in 2022, it seemed to be going from strength to strength. Emmerdale's Joe Warren Plant Splits with Girlfriend: Sad News But insiders told The Sun previously that the romance hit the rocks, despite a trip to America together last year. The Blackpool-born lad, who plays Jacob Gallagher in the ITV soap, and Anna previously fell out after claims she was unfaithful. Joe's character was first introduced to the village in 2010 and since then has faced testing situations. The star has been a familiar face on the ITV soap since the tender age of eight. Joe moved in with his late mum in 2021 during his stint in Dancing On Ice following his split from his then-girlfriend. The actor took a break from Emmerdale to star on the reality show before returning six months later. The actor competed alongside professional partner Vanessa Bauer. Unfortunately, Vanessa and Joe were booted out of the contest after testing positive for Covid-19. The soap actor suffered his own personal grief after the death of his beloved mum following liver complications aged just 47 in 2022. 5 The Emmerdale star soaked up the sights in Spain Credit: Instagram 5 The actor with his ex girlfriend Anna Credit: Instagram
Yahoo
19-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Bolton boxer and Christine McGuinness recognised at ceremony this evening
A Bolton boxer along with Christine McGuinness has been recognised at this year's British Diversity Awards. Christine won media champion of the year at the British Diversity Awards, for her advocacy for autism and ADHD. And Bolton Boxer Cindy Ngamba was recognised for bringing about positive change. Cindy (Image: University of Bolton/Bolton College) Author and presenter Christine, who was diagnosed with autism later in life, is an ambassador for Caudwell Children, a charity that provides autism support and services for disabilities, and fronted a BBC documentary titled Christine McGuinness: Unmasking My Autism. READ MORE: Christine McGuinness issues Instagram update to fans after split from Paddy McGuinness Christine McGuinness diagnosed with autism after Paddy's suspicions Bolton boxer Cindy makes history with guaranteed medal Blackpool-born Christine , 36, beat nominees such as the first blind Strictly Come Dancing winner, comedian Chris McCausland, and TV presenter and campaigner Katie Piper, who founded a charity to help others who had been scarred from traumatic incidents, and had herself survived burns. She has three children, Felicity and twins Leo and Penelope, who have all been diagnosed with autism, with her former husband, Bolton-born Paddy McGuinness. On Wednesday, Christine and Cindy attended the ceremony, hosted by Loose Women star Charlene White, and Dr Ranj Singh, for the fourth annual diversity prize at Grosvenor House London. The event, founded by LGBT+ campaigner Linda Riley, celebrates diversity, equity and inclusion by recognising and bringing together individuals and organisations. Guests included presenters Angellica Bell and JJ Chalmers, and former New Tricks actress Tamzin Outhwaite, along with disco group Boney M, who performed their hits Daddy Cool, Rasputin and Sunny. Linda said: 'I'm so proud of what the British Diversity Awards represents, diversity and inclusion are the foundations of a stronger, more successful society. 'The British Diversity Awards celebrate those organisations and individuals leading the way in creating a more equal and representative world for everyone. It's been a truly inspirational night.' Bolton Boxer Cindy Ngamba, the first member of the Refugee Olympic Team to win a medal at the games, taking bronze at Paris 2024 for the women's 75kg event, was given the athlete powering positive change award. The Cameroonian, 26, was granted refugee status in the UK because it would be unsafe for her to return home because of her sexuality – homosexuality is illegal in Cameroon. The winner of the company of the year award went to bankers Monzo, and the Nationwide Building Society's Enable Network won the outstanding ability network of the year award. Gemma Webb, from property development company Barratt Redrow, won the head of diversity of the year award, and Kat Parsons, from energy and services company Centrica, took home the inspirational role model of the year award. Sky UK were awarded diversity team of the year, EDF Energy's Women's Network won outstanding women's network of the year, and energy company LGBT+ and Friends won outstanding LGBTQIA network of the year.
