Broadcast journalist Clare Balding, known for her coverage of major events like the Olympics and Wimbledon, is set to commentate on King Charles' Coronation. However, her personal life also draws attention, particularly her marriage to fellow broadcaster Alice Arnold.
The couple, who met while working at the BBC in 1999, entered a civil partnership in 2006, celebrating with a drinks party at an 18th-century Palladian villa in Chiswick. Nine years later, they returned to the same venue for a private wedding ceremony with no guests, as same-sex marriage became legal. Clare explained on the Jonathan Ross Show that the marriage was backdated to 2006, making them officially married since then.
In 2016, during Clare's coverage of the Rio Olympics, viewers noticed she wasn't wearing her wedding ring, sparking concerns. Alice quickly clarified on Twitter that Clare was advised not to take sentimental jewellery to Brazil, and the ring was safely at home. Alice added that Clare only travels with costume jewellery to avoid losing irreplaceable items.
The couple, who are avid animal lovers, have no children but own several cats. In 2020, they mourned the loss of their beloved dog Archie, who passed away at age 15. Clare paid tribute on Instagram, describing their heartbreak and gratitude for the joy Archie brought.
