Rugby star James Haskell reveals true feelings for ex-wife Chloe Madeley

James Haskell has candidly opened his heart about his former partner, Chloe Madeley. He confesses that she shaped him into a "better person" and affirms his enduring "love" for her.

The ex-England Rugby star and the fitness guru, who is none other than the progeny of TV legends Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan, exchanged vows in 2018 and later celebrated the arrival of their daughter Bodhi. Despite parting ways in October 2023, post the filming of their reality TV series on family life, the duo stays united in their approach to raising their child.

Chloe has not shied away from airing the struggles they faced, branding the last year together as "one of the worst periods of my life". She holds the conviction that their lives are more fruitful separately.

Nonetheless, James harbours appreciation for the indelible mark she left on his life.

While speaking on the Spooning with Mark Wogan podcast, James conveyed affectionate remembrances: "Chloe is an amazing woman, extremely talented, she's made me a much better person, being with her, now we're separated. You separate essentially because you want to make sure your daughter has the best possible life", reports the Mirror.

He proceeded to underscore the prime focus on their daughters happiness and their cooperation in parenting: "And I think when you have a child you have a responsibility and all of your other wishes go out of the window. The ability for us to co-parent and do stuff is so important, Chloe is more vocal because she wears her heart on her sleeve," as reported by Wales Online.

James has candidly discussed the enduring impact of social media vis-a-vis traditional media, musing: "I'm a bit more reserved because I think she's amazing. With social media nothing dies, when we were younger they say today's newspaper is tomorrow's s*** paper but not anymore."

The star admitted his enduring affection for the mother of his child, revealing that he intends to explain their separation to their son Bohdi by saying: "I still love Chloe, you know we love you, and this is what happened."

The couple has remained tight-lipped about the exact reasons behind their split, but whispers hint that James's bustling life as a DJ may have been a factor, particularly after he was spotted engaging with other women at events.

During 'Chloe Madeley: A Family Affair', the atmosphere tensed as Chloe confronted James regarding his social media activity during a trip to Ibiza, which involved photos of other women's behinds. Chloe didn't hide her frustration, emphasising the disrespect it showed, especially since "when everyone knows I'm your wife'."