Women who get divorced don’t get invited to dinners – they’re overlooked, says Davina McCall, 56, as she reveals what she feared most about mid-life

Women who get divorced don't get invited to dinners - they're overlooked, says Davina McCall, 56, as she reveals what she feared most about mid-life

As a dedicated follower of Davina McCall‘s journey, I can’t help but admire her strength, resilience, and grace as she navigates through life’s challenges with unwavering spirit. Her emotional tribute to her partner at the National Television Awards was a testament to the power of love and connection in our lives, especially during midlife when loneliness can be a looming shadow.


Last week at the National Television Awards, Davina McCall emotionally honored her boyfriend, acknowledging that life might have felt isolating without him by his side.

Upon receiving the esteemed Special Recognition award, she gazed at her longtime companion, Michael Douglas, to convey: “It’s a delight to be traveling this path with you. You help me grow and bring joy to my life. Thank you.

For Ms. McCall, 56, it was an open declaration, as she usually keeps her romantic life private and tucked away in the seclusion of her Kent residence.

In a unique conversation with the Mail, she shares her heartfelt appreciation for her current relationship and reveals her earlier apprehensions about facing midlife solo.

Women who get divorced don't get invited to dinners - they're overlooked, says Davina McCall, 56, as she reveals what she feared most about mid-life

It seems especially fitting since her name has become synonymous with this show that aims to alleviate the same anxiety. She returns tonight to host the second season of ITV’s My Mum, Your Dad, a mature version of Love Island, where single, middle-aged individuals, chosen by their children, try to find love as they live together in a mansion in Surrey.

Ms McCall and the renowned hairdresser Douglas, who is 50 years old, started dating two years following her separation from her husband Matthew Robertson, after 17 years of marriage. She shared with me: “Loneliness is a subject that comes up often in My Mum, Your Dad, and I had many conversations with Michael about this. I told him: ‘It’s quite astounding that we found each other at this stage in life; I wonder if I would be with anyone else if it hadn’t been for our relationship.’

As a lifestyle expert, I often ponder about the unique journeys of individuals, especially women, later in life. It’s a bittersweet realization that many women find contentment and fulfillment in solitude as they grow older. However, it’s unfortunate to witness instances where these independent women are left out or overlooked, such as not receiving dinner invitations or being disregarded because they are no longer part of a couple. Being single can amplify feelings of loneliness, which is truly saddening to observe.

She remarks: ‘I believe it’s quite challenging for well-known women. You can’t use dating apps, so how do you connect with people? I didn’t have that issue because I knew Michael – we had been acquainted for 20 years. In all likelihood, I would enroll in a dance class – who knows what other activities I might have chosen.’

Women who get divorced don't get invited to dinners - they're overlooked, says Davina McCall, 56, as she reveals what she feared most about mid-life

For Ms. McCall, it’s unbearable to contemplate this situation, particularly given the current emptiness of her nest. Her oldest daughter Holly, age 23, has recently relocated to Manchester with her partner. Daughter Tilly, aged 21, is currently in Australia. This leaves only son Chester, 18, at home for another year before he embarks on his university journey.

She remarks that she’s currently grappling with the challenge of an empty nest,” she states. “As parents, our goal is to instill in our children enough self-assurance so they can confidently depart from home without looking back, and not fear taking that bold step.

As a devoted admirer, I escorted Holly on her journey up North, where she seized a fresh opportunity. We ventured together to Ikea for all the necessary storage solutions, and after that exhilarating ride, we arrived at our destination. Then, I found myself grappling with an uncharted sensation in my heart – it was a strange, new feeling. I pondered: ‘Could this be the moment when I have to bid her farewell… oh, how difficult it is!’

Instead of taking someone to university and expecting them to return during a major holiday, she is embarking on the next chapter of her life. Leaving her brought tears to my eyes, an emotion I hadn’t anticipated. The anticipation and excitement are palpable, but it’s tinged with emotion as well – a surprise feeling.

She expresses fondness for offering mid-lifers, similar to herself, a fresh start through My Mum, Your Dad, noting that the program reflects her personal experiences. In simpler terms, she identifies with the generation of individuals who were the 1980s partygoers. They are her kindred spirits, she declares.

In the past, when no one checked for ID, we all started clubbing at a young age, around 14, 15, or 16. Back then, girls embraced being called “ladettes,” and I was the first among them who didn’t drink. We belong to the generation that got wild, had children, brought them up, and then realized we still had some youth left in us.

Women who get divorced don't get invited to dinners - they're overlooked, says Davina McCall, 56, as she reveals what she feared most about mid-life

Upon encountering the presenter at ITV’s west London headquarters, she appears strikingly youthful for her age. She radiates health and is remarkably fit. Recently, she shared an image on Instagram in a red bikini and cowboy boots, highlighting her toned abs.

She maintains a relatively simple workout routine, yet recently, she has decided to abstain from sugar once more, opting for eggs in the morning and consuming an abundance of oily fish. As she puts it, “I only manage to exercise three to four times a week due to my schedule.

On most days, I’m quite busy. I prefer to take the stairs instead of the escalator, or exit the train a station early and stroll or jog. This past summer has been filled with activities like swimming in the ocean, dancing at nightclubs, and kayaking.

‘I do strength training now – bicep curls, planks, squats with weights.’

She shares that she’s embarking on the Couch to 5k program. Being new to running and currently unfit, she acknowledges that she’s starting from scratch once more. With a smile, she modestly admits her current status.

My Mum, Your Dad started last night at 9pm on ITV1 and ITVX.

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2024-09-16 03:49

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