Ruth Langsford Credits Rylan Clark for Lifeline After Sister's Tragic Death
In an exclusive revelation, television presenter Ruth Langsford has expressed her eternal gratitude to close friend Rylan Clark for his pivotal role in supporting her during the devastating aftermath of her sister's suicide. The emotional account is detailed in Langsford's newly released memoir, Feeling Fabulous, where she bravely discusses the profound loss of her sister Julia in 2019.
The Tragic Phone Call That Changed Everything
Langsford recounts receiving "the worst phone call I have ever had" with the news that her 62-year-old sister Julia had taken her own life. At the time, she was at home with her then-16-year-old son Jack, while her husband Eamonn Holmes was away in Belfast. The initial moments were described as a "total blur," with Jack providing immediate comfort as Langsford grappled with overwhelming devastation.
"I must have been wailing because Jack, my then sweet-sixteen-year-old son, was suddenly there with his arms around me and was hugging tightly," she writes. "Perhaps he took the phone out of my hand. I don't remember what happened, but I will never forget the feeling of devastation that overwhelmed me."
Rylan Clark's Timely Intervention
With Holmes unable to return immediately, he contacted Rylan Clark, a mutual friend, to ask for help. Clark promptly called Langsford to keep her talking while Holmes arranged for other friends to visit. Although Langsford admits she doesn't recall much of the conversation, she emphasizes its significance.
"I just knew he was there and I will be forever grateful for that phone call," she states in the book. Soon after, friends Lucy and Louise arrived at her door late at night, providing further consolation following Clark's calming words.
A Heartfelt Tribute to Julia
Langsford pays moving tribute to her sister in the memoir, describing Julia as "smart, creative and amazing" with talents in cooking, gardening, and community activities like swimming and sailing clubs. She wears a bracelet daily that she gave to Julia when her sister served as her bridesmaid, helping maintain a connection.
"She was a loving daughter, sister, wife and a devoted mother," Langsford writes. "She couldn't see it and was uncomfortable with compliments, but I told her all the time how great she was."
Praise for Rylan Clark and Personal Reflections
Beyond the immediate crisis, Langsford praises Clark's professional talents, calling him "a bit of a genius" and expressing admiration for younger presenters. She also shares advice for maintaining positivity, urging readers to "surround yourself with fabulous people" and avoid toxic influences.
"Find your own fabulous, you'll know what it is," she advises, noting that simple pleasures like a Friday night takeaway while watching Coronation Street can bring joy.
The book, Feeling Fabulous: Be your best self, no matter what life throws at you, is published by Hodder & Stoughton and available now. For those struggling with similar issues, the Samaritans offer a free 24/7 helpline at 116 123.
