Christine McGuinness has described dating as “petrifying” for someone with autism who “doesn’t like change”, following her split from husband Paddy McGuinness last year. The reality TV star, who was diagnosed with autism in 2021, said she cannot imagine being with anyone else after 15 years with the Top Gear presenter.
In an interview with The Times, McGuinness admitted she does not know what it is like to date or be single, calling the prospect of a new chapter “petrifying”. She shares three children with Paddy – Felicity and twins Leo and Penelope – all of whom have also been diagnosed with autism.
McGuinness has filmed a new BBC One documentary exploring how her autistic traits contributed to her staying in an “unhappy” marriage. “I didn’t want my family to ever fall apart and that’s why I stayed married,” she said. “As an autistic woman, I like to stay where I’m comfortable, I like things to stay the same.”
The former couple, who married in 2011, confirmed their separation in June 2022. McGuinness said she felt it was important to show her children that “Mummy is independent and works”, and that no one should stay in a relationship that is not “100 per cent right”.
Christine McGuinness: Unmasking My Autism airs on Wednesday 15 March at 9pm on BBC One.
