‘Cougar curse’ topples love affairs from Shirley Ballas’ engagement to Kym Marsh split

A new popular celebrity relationship dubbed the “Cougar Curse” by a renowned expert who claims misaligned life stages and public scrutiny from the beginning doom them.

Shirley Ballas, 64, and her 51-year-old toyboy fiance Danny Taylor broke up earlier this year.

Celebrity pairings featuring older women and younger men – often dubbed “toyboy” relationships – make for glamorous headlines but a relationship expert has warned against the so-called “Cougar Curse”.

These relationships, from Shirley Ballas, 64, and Danny Taylor, 51, to Kerry Katona, 44, and Ryan Mahoney, 36, spell trouble according to Gemma Logan, a relationship expert at The Foxy Hen. She credits issues like misaligned life stages, emotional disconnects, and invasive public scrutiny for often derailing them.

“Celebrity toyboy relationships rarely last because they start with intensity but face challenges: life-stage differences, public scrutiny, energy mismatches, and emotional gaps,” Gemma told Fabulous. “Society often scrutinises older women dating younger men more harshly than the reverse,” she added.

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Kym Marsh and Samuel Thomas
Kym Marsh was dating Samuel Thomas who was 19-years her junior(Image: @samuelthomasuk/Instagram)

Public reaction can be brutal to these kinds of relationships. Actress Kym Marsh faced scathing comments when her romance with a man 19 years her junior became public, receiving messages comparing him to her son.

She condemned the online trolling and called it a shame on society. Kerry Katona, Kelly Brook, Kym Marsh and Tamzin Outhwaite have all had toyboy romances that haven’t worked out.

Emotional compatibility is also a crucial factor. Kristina, who allegedly cheated on emotional neglect, said he “wasn’t there for me emotionally.”

Another common age-gap issue was the timing, according to Shirley Ballas’ celebrity. She acknowledged ignoring initial “red flags” and eventually realizing that she and her younger fiance were heading in different directions despite being protective of the relationship.

Additionally important are physical condition, nightlife habits, and career priorities. Gemma claims that younger partners bring excitement and novelty, but that a romance can become strained by inconsequentials in routines, lifestyle choices, and priorities over time.

Kelly Brook and Danny Cipriani
Kelly Brook and Danny Cipriani dated from 2008 to 2010(Image: Getty Images)

The relationship either evolves or disintegrates as the novelty fades, she continued. Beyond deeper emotional and practical contradictions, the power of passion alone was insufficient.

Kelly Brook’s high-profile romance with former Wasps rugby ace Danny Cipriani, who was eight years her junior, admitted it was a “nice ego boost” to attract someone in their 20s.

Kelly stated in a 2010 interview with The Times: “It’s nice ego booster that someone in their 20s finds you attractive when you’re 30.

When you reach the age of 30, you realize that a young toyboy is a nice one. It is fantastic.

Not all age-gap relationships are destined to fail, though. After becoming official in 2014, Kris Jenner, 69, and Corey Gamble, 44, continue to excel.

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Rosie-Huntington-Whiteley, 37, and Jason Statham, 57, the actor, wed in 2016, and the couple have since welcomed their first child.

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Lucy Mecklenburgh slams rumours she’s cheating with Ryan Thomas’ brother in skit

Despite Lucy Mecklenburgh’s marriage to Ryan Thomas’ brother, Scott Thomas, the pair’s romance has frequently been the subject of rumors.

Lucy Mecklenburgh found a light-hearted way to respond to people accusing her of cheating on her husband, Ryan Thomas, with his brother Scott. The family, including brothers Scott and Adam, are super close-knit and often discuss their hilarious moments with fans.

The Only Way Is Essex star Lucy, 34, previously revealed Ryan’s brother wolf-whistle when she’s trying on clothes. She shared: “This family’s weird. Not normal.” Ryan admitted he “loves it” when she made the admission but some fans were left convinced Scott ‘fancies Lucy’ as they reacted to the story.

The TV personality and Scott have now collaborated to make a hilarious video that responds to the romance rumors.

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Scott and Lucy filmed a skit addressing the rumours(Image: Instagram)

When your brother starts to become suspicious of all the rumors, Scott wrote in the caption.

Before he embraced her and said, “Thank you for dinner, Scott, you’re such a good cook, you’re so nice to see you, Scott,” he began to walk into the hallway with Lucy and Scott.

Lucy responded, “Aw, thanks, love.” Have you ever exercised? I’ve visited the gym a few times, but… “, Scott said. before being cut off by what everyone assumed was a puffer jacket that was hanging from the ceiling to reveal Ryan, who was leaning against the door and had his legs hidden behind it.

Ryan Thomas with Scott and Lucy Mecklenburgh
Ryan dropped down from his hiding spot on the door(Image: Instagram)

Before Scott yelled, “I’ll be going then,” Ryan looked on unimpressed toward both of them.

One enthralled fan wrote, “I’m trying so hard to figure out how he stayed up there for so long.” Fans were in stitches over the skit.

Ryan’s expression “just doesn’t change,” according to one person, and another added, “The best part is definitely Ryan jumping off the door… love this family keep the videos coming.”

Scott and Lucy recently admitted they are “so alike” and that they constantly speak on the phone. He said, “I would have thought that the fact that we were so open with each other was a clear sign that it’s not anything untoward,” in a statement made on his podcast with Ryan and Adam.

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Ryan responded, “I’ll be honest, I was a little uneasy with it,” before adding, “I actually don’t care and don’t see any of this, I love how close we are as a family, but get a bird mate”!

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Andrew Lincoln says his kids won’t speak to him after taking on steamy role at 50

At the age of 50, the Walking Dead star has admitted that he is proud that his teenage children still want to see him in the buff, but they are not at all happy about the prospect.

Andrew Lincoln’s teenage children are not on speaking terms with him after the actor agreed to an X-rated role(Image: Gene Page/AMC )

Andrew Lincoln has admitted that while he’s “delighted” fans still want to see him strip off on screen at the age of 50, his teenage children are far less enthusiastic about his risqué career choices.

The Walking Dead star, who is best known for playing Rick Grimes in the hit zombie series, has taken on a role in the new ITV thriller Coldwater. The six-part drama marks his first return to British television in 15 years – but it comes with a scene that has left some of his family members horrified.

Lincoln made it known that his character was occasionally shown masturbating on screen, and he felt the need to preemptively warn his children about this incident. Unfortunately, the conversation didn’t go as planned.

Andrew Lincoln at a Coldwater photocall
The actor will be playing the leading man in new ITV thriller Coldwater(Image: Getty Images)

How would you like it if I appeared on national television and said, “How would you like me?” What do you think, he asked? ‘”, Lincoln shared.

The actor, who has two children with his wife Gael Anderson, added: “My children haven’t spoken to me since I did the job.” Can you just not have waited until I was finished with my studies for three years? asked my son.

Despite the backlash he is facing from his teens, Lincoln has made no secret of his excitement to be propositioned for such a daring role. “Look, I’m just thrilled that people are still asking me to get naked at 50,” he told The Times.

It won’t be the first time the actor has stripped down for the camera, as he was previously featured running down a hallway only wearing a tiny red pair of Speedos during an episode of Channel 4 comedy-drama Teachers.

Andrew Lincoln topless in Channel 4 show Teachers
It is not Lincoln’s first time stripping off for a role(Image: Channel 4)

Lincoln claims that his wife Gael has received her seal of approval for the performance despite the fact that his children may not be. Gael was formerly Gwyneth Paltrow’s assistant and Jethro Tull frontman Ian Anderson’s daughter. In a glittering ceremony in 2006, Paltrow and Chris Martin’s daughter Apple performed the role of “flower girl.”

In Coldwater, Lincoln portrays John, a middle-aged Londoner who secretly rages at his status as a stay-at-home dad. John relocates his family to the fictional Scottish village of Coldwater in hopes of a new beginning after a violent confrontation at a playground.

However, what starts out as a retreat to the countryside quickly turns into a treacherous betrayal story. Ewen Bremner (Trainspotting) portrays John’s neighbor Tommy, Indira Varma (Obi-Wan Kenobi) as John’s wife Fiona, and Eve Myles (Keeping Faith) as Rebecca the local vicar.

Fiona hopes their new home in Coldwater will help them mend their fractious marriage, but she soon starts to doubt Tommy, their self-assured, charismatic neighbor, as they begin to grow sceptical.

Author and creator David Ireland previously described how the series was inspired by a question he himself was asking. Which is better for me, the countryside or the city, where? Such a innocent beginning, but the result was a twisted, funny, and dark thriller.

“I was thrilled when ITV decided to commission the script, and I was thrilled when Sister loved it.” And I’m appalled we’ve managed to get such a formidable Andrew Lincoln-led cast. I’m hoping people will enjoy it.

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Celebs Go Dating’s Paul C Brunson shuns Mark Labbett’s apology after tense row

Following an argument between them at a brunch, Celebs Go Dating star Mark Labbett was caught trying to apologize to relationship coach Paul C. Brunson.

Relationship coach Paul C. Brunson said he didn’t accept Mark Labbett’s apology on last night’s Celebs Go Dating. It came after the Chase star was accused of insulting Paul in a scene that aired on the E4 show earlier this week.

Mark is one of the famous people who Paul and his coworkers, Anna Williamson and Dr. Tara Suwinyattichaiporn, are dating. At a brunch held on Wednesday night, he made fun of the trio, claiming that he and his date Deanne were “smarter” than them.

The quiz’s author apologized at the time because of the tension between him and Paul. Mark apologised to the agency in the most recent episode, which aired yesterday, before his upcoming session.

He apologized to Paul, “I’m here to apologize.” I’m so sorry I offended you, but I apologized profligately. I was immediately aware of my error and I apologize. Then Paul said, “Mark, I appreciate what you said. I reject that apology.

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Mark Labbett, pictured, was seen apologising to Paul C. Brunson on last night’s Celebs Go Dating following tension at a brunch(Image: E4)

In a confessional, Paul described his decision. He explained to the audience, “I wouldn’t be doing my job unless I helped him manage complex emotional situations in the future,” while I commend Mark for entering.

When he met with Mark, he inquired, “Do you know why I don’t accept that apology?” A textbook apology is acknowledging exactly how you think we felt at the time, Paul said after the guest said “no.” True apologies include “I own it, I’m sorry for how I made you feel, I take 100% of the blame, and here’s how I intend to repair the damage I caused.”

Right, Mark responded. I offended you, Paul, and I’m so sorry. And I’ll do everything in my power to support and assist my coworkers as much as I can. Paul remarked, “I can accept that. After thanking him, the two “hugged it out” before hitting it off.

Mark described it as “like being a naughty schoolkid in the headmaster’s office,” but he nailed it in a confessional. I’m starting to realize that my emotional control isn’t what it used to be, and I’m starting to feel like my grandmother.

Paul C. Brunson in a black jumper sat in the Celebs Go Dating office.
Paul, pictured, didn’t accept Mark’s first apology in the scene but accepted his second after giving him advice on how to apologise(Image: E4)

Before a session with them, Mark later apologized to Anna and Tara. He apologised to them without condition, “I do.” You have nothing but admiration for your abilities in the workplace. I’m sorry”.

After a brunch with his co-stars, where he and Deanne admitted they wanted to go on another date, he apologized. Mark made fun of the three coaches’ eyes by saying he wanted one.

We’ve just enjoyed each other’s company, he said, and there’s occasionally some overthinking. Although we’re not the same as you guys as master strategists, let’s face it, we’re smarter than you! So let’s just pursue our own interests.”

You know why you always make fun of us, Paul said. because you have no emotional intelligence. I apologize, but I’m gracious to those who count. According to Paul, “What I notice is that you insult people when you get anxious.”

Mark responded, “No, just you”! Paul responded, “So there you go again.” Mark, a former teacher, claimed using “wit” as a standard for a teacher, but Paul claimed to be using “insults” in place of “wit.” You want to be a teacher all the time, but first, you have to be a student. Paul questioned whether it was “genuine,” which he replied that it was. Mark later apologised and Paul thanked him.

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Celebs Go Dating will continue on E4 on Monday at 9 p.m.

Inside Laura Whitmore’s life from famous husband to latest project

A brand-new, harrowing true crime series starring Laura Whitmore is scheduled to hit theaters the following week.

Laura Whitmore is poised to grace our screens once more next week with a chilling new true crime programme.

Crime+Investigation UK will debut Laura Whitmore on Britain’s Killer Teens on Monday, 8th September at 9pm, delving into some of the nation’s most disturbing teenage murder cases. The host will examine Britain’s most harrowing youth crimes as she seeks to tackle the pressing question of why these tragedies occur.

The documentary series will also look into whether steps can be taken to stop further, devastating killings and features exclusive conversations with family members as well as experts and investigative teams. Each program will focus on a distinct case over five episodes.

Laura Whitmore investigates some of Britain’s killer teens including a Dexter copycat killer as she returns to screens(Image: Crime+Investigation)

From a Dexter-inspired murderer to a teen who slaughtered his own parents before departing on holiday whilst leaving their corpses behind, reports OK!. But who exactly is Laura Whitmore?

spouse of a famous person

Laura Whitmore is married to comedian Iain Stirling, who is renowned for providing the voiceover for the hit Love Island reality programme. Their relationship flourished in 2017 when reports emerged of the pair enjoying a “secret relationship”.

Following months of rumours, it was finally confirmed the duo were flourishing as a couple, with both taking to their social media platforms to become ‘Instagram official’.

Since that time, they’ve frequently shared sweet pictures of their families and themselves. Laura and Iain moved in together in 2018 and posted a photo of their moving experience online.

When Laura was discovered wearing a ring on her finger, there was soon much speculation. As their relationship develops, the dynamic duo have been spotted collaborating on Love Island and creating their own podcast, Murder They Wrote.

Laura and her husband Iain Sterling
Laura and her husband Iain Sterling(Image: Getty)

Secret Wedding

Fans were stunned when Laura dropped a bombshell in 2021. Iain asked me to marry him a year ago, and the wedding was magical and flawless.

We adored being by ourselves. We had planned the ideal occasion, and I’ll never forget how grateful we were. Our engagement and wedding have never been discussed publicly.

“We never felt the need to say anything because it was all a personal experience back then.” We were too busy enjoying it either! Here’s to the good news: “We’ve never shared this picture before, but many people have contacted us and congratulated us on good intentions over the past month.”

OK! previously reported that Laura shared an unseen wedding photo on her anniversary which featured the stylish shoes she wore to walk down the aisle. The monochrome snap showcased the Jimmy Choo heels she donned on her big day, simply captioned: “11.11”.

LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 11: Laura Whitmore attends the 2025 BAFTA Television Awards with P&O Cruises at The Royal Festival Hall on May 11, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Karwai Tang/WireImage)
Laura Whitmore will return to screens with a brand new true crime series(Image: Karwai Tang/WireImage)

Private Family Life

Laura maintains a quiet family life despite her well-known career. On social media, she occasionally shares details about her private life with her followers, including details about the couple’s 2021 birth and home’s exquisite decor.

Laura expressed gratitude for all the kind messages sent at this time in a modest Instagram post announcing the birth of their daughter. We have a romantic partner.

As previously reported by Mirror, their stunning home is filled with distinctive designs and vibrant patterns, creating a light and airy atmosphere. During lockdown, fans were treated to a look inside their main residence when the couple appeared on Celebrity Gogglebox, offering viewers a glimpse into their off-screen lives.

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Career in presenting

Laura Whitmore is a well-known Irish broadcaster, author, and actress. Fans will remember her from her time as the presenter of Love Island before she stepped down in 2022, as well as her role on I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here! Now!

The Laura Whitmore Show, the star’s radio program, and the podcasts Murder They Wrote and Castaway are also hosted by the star. The brand-new series Britain’s Killer Teens, which will give voice to victims and their families, is now being presented by Laura.

BBC Breakfast legend shares health update after ‘excruciating’ issue

Following what she previously described as an “excruciating” experience, former BBC Breakfast presenter Louise Minchin has updated her on her health.

Louise Minchin (right) with her-then BBC Breakfast colleagues Steph McGovern and Dan Walker in 2018(Image: Dave J Hogan, Dave J Hogan/Getty Images)

Former BBC Breakfast host Louise Minchin has provided a fresh update on her wellbeing, following what she previously branded an “excruciating” ordeal. The 56-year-old has become a champion for menopause awareness, highlighting the crucial need for frank discussions and solidarity amongst women facing comparable struggles.

The presenter made it clear how emotionally draining it was for her during her menopause, especially when she broadcast live on television, in 2022. Hello! She recalls having an “embarrassing conversation” with her superior at work because she was “too hot and sweaty.”

She stated to the publication in her recollections that she wasn’t being a diva. It was agonizing. After a three-year break from presenting duties before joining BBC Rip Off Britain last year, Louise left the program in 2021.

She hasn’t stopped exercising, which includes running, cycling, and swimming.

Louise gives an update on her health in an exclusive interview with Reach PLC. She claims to now feel “great” thanks to her exercise regimen.

BBC Breakfast
Louise Minchin stepped away from BBC Breakfast in 2021(Image: PA)

She continued, “It has helped me in many ways, but when I was having really bad menopausal issues, I had both physical and what I would call psychological issues.” I also experienced terrible hot sweats that kept me awake, which made it seem like I was sleeping really badly.

I’m not a very anxious person, but I was feeling much more anxious than Louise, who I know, and I found that exercise was really good for both my physical health and my bones and the rest of it.

“But again, it just gave me that peaceful and peaceful moment that quenched those irrational thoughts.”

Louise revealed that she forced herself to go outside in order to avoid the menopause, which made her want to stay inside.

The IGF Conversation: Realising a Global Community
Louise Minchin has become a champion for menopause awareness(Image: Getty)

She explained that exercise has really helped her through a lot of difficult times in her life, especially those when I was funding menopause and experiencing really difficult symptoms.

Louise continued, “I’m great, I’m 57 on Monday and it’s really interesting, I’ve been on a big journey with exercise really, and what I’ve learned is that I’m really proud of what my body cam do, not necessarily what it looks like, but rather accept that it’s good.

I’ve learned a lot from my experience, which is that as you get older, you should be proud of what your body has done and what it can do rather than how it looks.

This weekend sees Louise team up with her former BBC Breakfast colleague Dan Walker for the Tour De 4 challenge.

Sir Chris Hoy
Sir Chris Hoy was diagnosed with stage four prostate cancer in September 2023(Image: GETTY)

Following his own diagnosis, Sir Chris Hoy’s steadfast determination to change attitudes regarding stage 4 cancer led to the creation of the brand-new cycling business. It’s absolutely amazing, according to Louise, and it’s to raise money and raise awareness for those who have stage four cancer.

“I know Chris quite well, I’ve known him for a while, and I’m confident that the day will be both very inspiring and emotional, exciting and exhausting.”

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“I know he’s really excited for the day, and he’s been absolutely on it, advertising it, and talking about it,” he said.