Celebrated author Hanif Kureishi, 70, marries Italian 20 years his junior after he was confined to a wheelchair

Ever since his first screenplay in 1984, titled “My Beautiful Launderette,” his knack for poking fun at upper-class values has been evident. This work not only garnered him an Oscar nomination but also brought the lead actor, Daniel Day-Lewis, into the global spotlight.

However, eventually at the age of 70, Hanif Kureishi – author of the controversial debut novel “The Buddha of Suburbia,” which even shocked his own sister – appears to be embracing traditional norms.

This week, it’s been revealed that he got married for the first time, a significant event that occurred many years following the birth of his twin sons with Tracey Scoffield and another son with Monique Proudlove, the young woman who led to him leaving Scoffield.

Certainly, Kureishi recently expressed his newfound interest in the concept of marriage during a public discussion at the British Library over the weekend, in a dialogue with author Monisha Rajesh.

Kureishi mused, ‘I’ve never given it a go,’ expressing this thought from his current position in the wheelchair, a situation he finds himself in following a fall in 2022 that left him immobile.

On Monday, I plan to give it a try. My wedding is taking place in Hammersmith, London, which is close to my home, allowing me easy access in my wheelchair.

He’s been sharing his life with Isabella d’Amico, an Italian woman who is 20 years younger than him, since the year 2012.

Due to an inability to grasp items like a pen, a glass, or manipulate technology such as a smartphone or computer, Kureishi pointed out that there would always be a third party present in their marriage, even during intimate moments like dinner at home.

As a lifestyle expert reflecting upon my current situation, I find myself constantly in the company of a dedicated caregiver, who is an unwavering presence each night. This change, brought about by an unfortunate accident, remains profoundly mind-bending, traumatic, and emotionally taxing to comprehend. Last night, Isabella shared that my sleep was disturbed by her cries of distress throughout the night. The raw horror of the incident continues to linger.

Indicating that his book “Shattered,” detailing the incident and its subsequent events, is being adapted into a movie, Kureishi hinted at the persistence of his signature wit. He jokingly expressed his desire for Brad Pitt to portray him in the film, which elicited laughter from the audience.

‘They thought he was a bit young for the part.’

In Kureishi’s perspective, the significant shift was in his interactions with others – a point that could pique the interest of an ex-girlfriend who once suggested that Kureishi’s second screenplay, Sammy and Rosie Get Laid, should have been titled: ‘Hanif Gains Financially, Sally Experiences Exploitation’.

In Kureishi’s words, ‘the bond grew significantly deeper, and as my desire intensified, they reciprocated my longing for their affection.’

As a lifestyle connoisseur, I can only express my anticipation that this encompasses his freshly acquired Italian mother-in-law. In a recent phone conversation, she inquired about my activities. My response was The Sopranos – a series I’m delving into to grasp more about your community and its heritage…

Fearne gets her sparkle back partying in Ibiza 

Fearne Cotton, who recently separated from her husband Jesse Wood, is committed to reclaiming her vibrant, youthful spirit.

Previously known as the host, aged 43, has been delighting in continuous partying on the vibrant Spanish island of Ibiza.

She posted a picture with her hands up, wearing a sparkly mini dress, indicating that her cup is filled and she needs rest.

Fearne, known for her commitment to health and wellbeing, was recently spotted locking lips with TV director Elliot Hegarty, aged 53. This encounter happened about eleven weeks following her public announcement of a break-up. Rumors suggest that they’ve been in a clandestine relationship since January, shortly after the split from her former partner Wood.

Florence pours pints for punters 

Last week, it was noticed that Florence Pugh served beers to patrons at a London pub. This followed her appearance in a music video for the pop artist Yungblud, where she previously starred.

The actress, 29, can certainly afford a round or two. 

The recently released financial data for the arts company where she directs her income, Flo Pug, reveals they earned a profit of approximately £1.2 million during the period ending in August last year.

It takes accumulated earnings held by her in the business to £3.9 million.

Monty Python star say’s he ‘doesn’t need’ royal honour 

Michael Palin received knighthood recognition, whereas his fellow Monty Python co-star, John Cleese, has declined multiple honorary titles.

‘I simply don’t need that sort of validation,’ Cleese declares. 

‘It’s enough for me to know that I’ve helped people through difficult times by making them laugh. 

After returning home, they switch on Fawlty Towers and the world appears less grim. That’s their little piece of happiness.

He mentions: ‘Additionally, notice the gentlemen who declined awards and titles, such as David Bowie and Michael Frayn… I hold them in high regard.’

What an honour for little Kidd! 

In 2021, after 16 years of marriage, makeup artist Jemma Kidd and Marquess of Douror Arthur Wellesley parted ways. However, this week they found a shared cause for reunion: Their youngest child served as a Page of Honor at the Order of the Garter service presided by King Charles and Queen Camilla in Windsor.

At the service held at St George’s Chapel, Alfred Wellesley, aged 10, assisted in transporting the weighty train of King Charles’s robe.

Yesterday, it was evident that Alfred’s family ties run deep with the Windsor family, as demonstrated by the attendance of his grandparents, the Duke and Duchess of Wellington, in the royal procession at Ascot. They were accompanied by Princess Anne during this event.

Sir David wins out after a barny with his Cotswolds neighbours 

Recently honored knight, Sir David Beckham, who served as the guest editor for Country Life magazine in October, found himself in a dispute with his neighbors regarding proposals to build a barn on his £6 million estate located in the Cotswolds.

It’s been reported that he, along with Victoria (also known as Lady Beckham), submitted an application to the West Oxfordshire District Council for constructing a building intended for storing hay, straw, and farm tools. This proposal has sparked a bit of controversy among some local residents.

Presently, planning authorities have issued an advance notice, confirming that the ex-England footballer has been given approval to construct the barn.

Ringo’s small jibe at Daltrey 

Following multiple terminations from The Who, drummer Zak Starkey clarifies that his father, legendary musician Sir Ringo Starr, holds a less-than-favorable opinion towards the band’s lead singer, Sir Roger Daltrey.

Despite Zak stating that he himself harbors no ill feelings towards the musician honored as a Knight, he alleges that Beatle Ringo expressed, ‘I’ve always disliked how that small man manages that band.’

Ringo is 5ft 7in to Roger’s 5ft 5in. 

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2025-06-18 01:05