Former England rugby international James Haskell was spotted radiating positivity as he embarked on a journey to Tenerife to continue production on the popular E4 reality series Celebs Go Dating. The 40-year-old athlete, who appears to be embracing this new chapter, was accompanied by fellow programme participants Gabby Allen and Lucinda Light as the trio departed for the Spanish island to film further segments exploring romantic connections.
Travel Style and Co-Star Companions
James Haskell cut a relaxed figure while navigating the airport travelator, sporting a smart-casual ensemble consisting of a brown jacket layered over a plain white T-shirt, complemented by dark trousers. His cheerful demeanour suggested genuine enthusiasm for the upcoming filming schedule in the Canary Islands.
Former Love Island contestant Gabby Allen opted for comfortable travel attire, wearing a coordinated grey hoodie and matching jacket combination with white leggings. She completed her airport look with practical brown boots, a white cap, and a matching handbag.
Married at First Sight Australia alumna Lucinda Light chose a stylish brown jacket paired with grey trousers and tan ankle boots. She accessorised thoughtfully with a gold necklace and a grey hat, presenting a polished appearance for the journey.
Series Context and Personal Background
This year's edition of Celebs Go Dating features an intriguing ensemble cast that extends beyond the travelling trio. Additional participants include Loose Women panelist Coleen Nolan, renowned rapper Professor Green, and Ibiza Weekender personality David Potts, promising diverse dynamics and entertainment for viewers.
James Haskell's involvement in the dating programme arrives approximately two years following his separation from television presenter and fitness expert Chloe Madeley. The former couple, who exchanged vows in 2018 before parting ways five years later, share custody of their three-year-old daughter Bodhi.
Navigating Post-Divorce Relationships
Insiders have revealed that producers actively pursued James for the series, believing his combination of name recognition, genuine humour, and potential romantic appeal would make compelling television. Since his separation, the rugby star has experienced limited serious relationships, including a brief publicised romance with Big Brother alumna Sara McLean that ended shortly after being announced.
James has spoken candidly about the complexities of separation when living partially in the public eye. During an appearance on This Morning, he emphasised prioritising co-parenting above personal conflicts, acknowledging the challenges while praising Chloe's parenting abilities and their constructive efforts for their daughter's wellbeing.
Chloe Madeley's Perspective
Chloe Madeley has independently discussed the emotionally turbulent nature of their divorce proceedings, describing periods of volatility interspersed with cooperative co-parenting. She revealed implementing conflict-avoidance strategies, explaining that escaping persistent disagreement motivated her decision to leave the marriage.
The fitness professional admitted receiving formal divorce confirmation triggered feelings of personal failure initially, though she now recognises the separation as necessary after the relationship became increasingly difficult. Despite ruling out romantic reconciliation, Chloe acknowledges improvements in their post-marriage dynamic, praising James's dedication as a father and their ability to maintain family time together.
Both former partners appear committed to maintaining a functional co-parenting relationship while pursuing separate personal journeys, with James's participation in Celebs Go Dating representing a significant step in his public re-engagement with dating culture.