Chris Tarrant has spoken candidly about the recent breakdown of his marriage. The popular British TV star, who has separated from his wife Ingrid after 15 years together, opened his heart at a charity golf event in Belfast on Thursday.
"I'm trying to sort my life out," said the Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? presenter, adding: "It's a bit of a shambles, but I'm strong." The comments came a fortnight after Chris confessed to having a lengthy affair with deputy head teacher Fiona McKechnie, who is a trustee of a charity he supports.
"I am deeply sorry for the hurt I have caused to my loyal wife and wonderful children, all of whom I adore," said the 50-year-old in the wake of the revelations. "I have only myself to blame for the breakdown of my marriage. While the liaison which has led to all of this was not significant in my life, I will always regret the hurt and pain that I have caused to those whom I love."
His Norwegian-born wife subsequently revealed she had harboured doubts about her husband's fidelity for months and had hired a private detective to confirm her suspicions. "I want to make it clear our divorce, and the settlement between Chris and I, will be conducted in a fair and civil manner," she added.
But if the ITV favourite's latest remarks are anything to go by, he is harbouring hopes of a reconciliation. Proving he has not lost his wry sense of humour, the small screen veteran told fans at Thursday's fundraiser that taking up golf really would spell the end of his relationship. "I'm a fisherman," he joked. "If I did fishing and golf it would be the final, final, final, final nail in the coffin of the Tarrant marriage."
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
