Stephen Mulhern’s Private Revelation About His Love Life—“I’m Not Built for a Traditional Relationship”
Stephen Mulhern, a household name in British television, has long captivated audiences with his quick wit, magical prowess, and charismatic presence on shows like Catchphrase, Deal or No Deal, and Dancing on Ice. Despite his public persona, Mulhern has remained fiercely private about his personal life, particularly his romantic relationships. However, recent revelations have shed light on his views about love, sparking intrigue among fans and media alike. In a candid moment, Mulhern reportedly confessed, “I’m not built for a traditional relationship,” a statement that has fueled speculation about his dating life and personal philosophy. This article delves into Mulhern’s rare comments on his love life, his past relationships, and what his admission might mean in the context of his high-profile career and private world.
A Private Star in the Public Eye
Stephen Mulhern, born on April 4, 1977, in Stratford, London, has been a fixture on British television for nearly three decades. Starting his career as a magician, he transitioned into presenting, first on children’s shows like Finger Tips and Holly & Stephen’s Saturday Showdown on CITV, before taking on prime-time roles on ITV. His infectious energy and comedic timing have made him a beloved figure, hosting fan favorites like Britain’s Got More Talent, In for a Penny, and, more recently, Dancing on Ice alongside Holly Willoughby. Despite his prominence, Mulhern has consistently kept his personal life under wraps, rarely sharing details about his relationships or private affairs.
This guarded approach has only heightened public curiosity. Fans and tabloids alike have speculated about his romantic status, with rumors often linking him to co-stars and industry peers. Yet, Mulhern’s reticence has meant that confirmed details about his love life are scarce, making his recent revelation about not being suited for a traditional relationship all the more significant.
The Revelation: “I’m Not Built for a Traditional Relationship”
Mulhern’s statement, “I’m not built for a traditional relationship,” has sparked widespread discussion, though the exact context and source of this quote remain elusive in recent reports. This admission suggests a self-awareness about his lifestyle and priorities, which may not align with conventional expectations of romance, such as long-term partnerships or marriage. For a man whose career demands constant travel, long hours, and public appearances, it’s perhaps unsurprising that a traditional relationship—often characterized by stability, routine, and shared domesticity—might feel incompatible.
In interviews over the years, Mulhern has hinted at the challenges his career poses to his personal life. In a 2018 conversation with Celebs Now, he admitted, “Last time I went on a date was about four years ago. That makes me sound really sad! I need a life. I need to stop working so much.” This comment underscores how his demanding schedule has often taken precedence, leaving little room for romance. His recent revelation seems to build on this, suggesting that his reluctance to pursue traditional relationships may stem from a deeper understanding of his own needs and lifestyle.
Past Relationships: A Glimpse into Mulhern’s Romantic History
While Mulhern has kept his love life private, one relationship has been publicly acknowledged: his romance with EastEnders actress Emma Barton. The pair met in 2008 while starring in a pantomime production of Snow White at the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury, where Barton played Snow White and Mulhern portrayed her loyal friend Muddles. Their chemistry reportedly blossomed off-stage, leading to a three-year relationship that ended in 2011. Mulhern described the split as a “natural end,” suggesting an amicable parting without delving into specifics.
Neither Mulhern nor Barton ever confirmed the relationship publicly during its duration, aligning with Mulhern’s preference for privacy. Since their breakup, Barton has moved on to a relationship with rock star Jason Perry, while Mulhern has not been publicly linked to anyone else in a confirmed romantic capacity. This lack of publicized relationships has fueled speculation about his personal life, with some outlets questioning his sexuality or suggesting he might be too focused on his career to prioritize romance.
More recently, Mulhern was rumored to be dating This Morning presenter Josie Gibson after they were spotted holding hands while filming Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway in April 2024. The images sparked a frenzy, but both parties quickly dispelled the rumors. Gibson jokingly told MailOnline, “I’m in love with Stephen Mulhern. There you go. But, story of my life, I don’t think he loves me.” She later clarified to OK! Magazine that they were “really good friends” with “no romance in the air.” Mulhern echoed this on This Morning, explaining that he was simply guiding Gibson to her mark during rehearsals.
The Challenges of Love in the Spotlight
Mulhern’s comment about not being built for a traditional relationship may reflect the unique challenges faced by those in the entertainment industry. The relentless pace of television work, coupled with public scrutiny, can make maintaining a stable relationship difficult. Mulhern’s career involves hosting multiple high-profile shows, often simultaneously, and his commitment to his craft is evident. His role on Deal or No Deal, for instance, was deeply personal, as he noted it was his father’s favorite show, making his hosting stint a poignant milestone.
This dedication to work may explain why Mulhern has prioritized his career over romantic pursuits. In a 2020 interview with The Sun, when asked about his sex life, he quipped, “Not enough!”—a humorous yet telling response that highlights his lighthearted approach to discussing personal matters. He also named his sister Suzie as the “love of his life,” playfully questioning if that made him “weird,” further emphasizing his close family ties over romantic ones.
Mulhern’s aversion to online dating also sheds light on his approach to relationships. In 2018, he told Celebs Now, “No way! One of my best mates met a girl online. But I think it’s a bit weird someone from the TV doing online dating. I think it’d be bizarre.” This stance suggests a preference for organic connections, perhaps made challenging by his public persona and busy schedule.
A Non-Traditional Outlook on Love
Mulhern’s revelation that he’s not built for a traditional relationship could indicate a broader perspective on what constitutes a fulfilling life. His close friendships with industry peers like Holly Willoughby, Ant McPartlin, Declan Donnelly, and Emma Willis are a testament to his value of meaningful connections outside romantic contexts. In a 2024 interview with OK! Magazine, he described these relationships as vital, noting that he can call on these friends for advice and support. His emphasis on family, particularly his parents, further underscores his prioritization of non-romantic bonds.
This outlook aligns with a growing societal shift, where individuals increasingly define fulfillment beyond traditional markers like marriage or long-term partnerships. Mulhern’s admission may resonate with those who, like him, find satisfaction in career achievements, friendships, and family, rather than adhering to conventional expectations of settling down.
The Impact of Personal Loss
The recent passing of Mulhern’s father, Christopher, in 2024, has added another layer to his private life. Reports indicate that Mulhern was deeply affected, even collapsing during a solo dinner and requiring hospitalization. This loss, coupled with previous health issues in 2022, may have prompted further reflection on his priorities. His comments about not being built for traditional relationships could reflect a period of introspection, where personal loss has reinforced his focus on existing connections rather than seeking new romantic ones.
Conclusion: A Life Less Ordinary
Stephen Mulhern’s revelation about not being suited for a traditional relationship offers a rare glimpse into the mind of a man who has thrived in the public eye while guarding his private world. His demanding career, close friendships, and family ties suggest a life rich with meaning, even if it doesn’t follow a conventional path. While fans may continue to speculate about his romantic status, Mulhern’s candid admission invites understanding rather than judgment. His story reflects a modern reality: that fulfillment can come in many forms, and for some, a traditional relationship may not be the answer. As Mulhern continues to charm audiences on screen, his off-screen life remains a fascinating enigma, defined by his own terms and unapologetic authenticity.