Former England and Liverpool striker Peter Crouch has opened up about why his wife, model Abbey Clancy, does not use his surname professionally, despite their fifteen-year marriage. The revelation came during a candid discussion on his popular podcast, where Crouch described feeling "quite emasculated" when mistakenly addressed by his wife's maiden name.
The Surname Situation Explained
Abbey Clancy, who hails from Woolton in Liverpool, married the footballer in 2011. Together they have built a family with four children: daughters Sophia Ruby and Liberty Rose, and sons Johnny and Jack. Despite this long-term union and shared family life, Abbey remains widely known by her birth name, Clancy, rather than taking the Crouch surname.
Peter Crouch clarified the legal technicalities during his podcast appearance, stating that Abbey is "legally" known as Crouch, but that "everyone just calls her Clancy." He acknowledged that this professional identity helps people recognise "who she was" in her modelling and media career.
A Personal Admission
The 6'7" former footballer recounted specific instances where the name confusion caused him discomfort. "Sometimes, if I've booked a hotel," Crouch explained, "I'll ring down and then, usually in a different country, and they'll call me Mr Clancy. I've been called Mr Clancy on a few occasions."
He didn't mince words about his feelings on the matter, adding: "It's not... I don't like it at all. It makes me feel slightly... yeah, not great." This frank admission provided rare insight into the personal dynamics of one of Britain's most recognisable celebrity couples.
Abbey Clancy's Career Background
The model first came to public attention after finishing as runner-up on Britain's Next Top Model in 2006. Her career has flourished since, with the Woolton native now co-hosting The Therapy Crouch podcast alongside her husband. The couple frequently share glimpses of their family life and relationship dynamics with their audience.
Recently, Abbey marked Peter's 45th birthday with a heartfelt Instagram tribute, posting a series of personal snaps with the caption: "Happy birthday to my world @crouchy. We all adore you more than anything." Followers quickly flooded the comments with birthday wishes and praise for their relationship.
Looking Back at Their Beginnings
Abbey has previously shared amusing anecdotes about their early courtship. On Good Morning Britain, she recalled their first meeting in 2005: "When we first met, he begged me for my number, and then I went to the loo or the bar, and when I came back, he was talking to another girl. I was like, 'How dare you?'"
According to Abbey, Peter attempted to explain he was "just talking," but she demanded her number back. His reported response? "You can't give someone your number and then take it back." This playful beginning has evolved into a lasting marriage that continues to capture public interest.
The couple's willingness to discuss even the more personal aspects of their relationship, including surname preferences and early misunderstandings, has endeared them to fans who appreciate their authentic approach to celebrity life.
