Richard Madeley has long been a familiar face on British television, with a career in broadcasting spanning over four decades. At 66, the presenter remains a key figure on UK screens, especially through his ongoing role on Good Morning Britain.
Madeley rose to prominence on the ITV breakfast show after stepping in more regularly following Piers Morgan’s controversial departure. His unique style of presenting quickly sparked conversation, with many drawing comparisons to the fictional, and often cringeworthy, broadcaster Alan Partridge. Despite the mixed reviews, his presence has added a distinctive flavour to the programme, and he has since signed on for a part-time permanent role.
Yet beyond his professional life, it is his longstanding relationship with his wife — and his eventful romantic past — that has captivated the public for years.
A Marriage Made in Television
Richard Madeley is currently married to Judy Finnigan, a fellow television presenter and writer. The two met while working in the Granada TV newsroom. At the time, Judy, now 74, was already established at the station and was assigned as Richard’s mentor.
Recalling their first meeting in an interview, Judy described how Richard made a lasting impression. “I remember the first time I saw him,” she said. “He walked into the newsroom wearing a pale blue linen suit. He looked tall, handsome — but I thought the suit was a bit much. Still, I was given the job of looking after him.”
The pair tied the knot in 1986 and went on to have two children, Chloe and Jack. Together, they also found television success as co-hosts of Richard and Judy, a daytime chat show that became hugely popular in the early 2000s.
However, when they first met, both were still married to other people. Judy was with journalist David Henshaw, with whom she had twin sons, Tom and Dan. Richard, meanwhile, had married Lynda Hooley at the age of 21.
Affairs and Regrets
Madeley has since spoken openly about his first marriage and the mistakes he made. He admitted that the relationship, which lasted six years, was marked by infidelity. In a candid interview, he revealed that he had been unfaithful multiple times during that period.
Reflecting on those years, he told The Mirror, “Oh lots, numerous — probably in the space of about five years, about ten [affairs].” He added, “Although the marriage had some very happy moments, there was a lot of negativity in it. I’m not using that as an excuse. It’s wrong to have affairs, but I was a very young man.”
A Wealth Built on Success
Today, Richard Madeley’s career in broadcasting has earned him a substantial fortune. Between presenting, writing, and other ventures, his net worth is estimated to be in the multi-million-pound range. Despite the controversies and personal challenges over the years, he has managed to maintain his status as one of the UK’s most recognisable television personalities.
