James Haskell, a former rugby player turned MMA fighter, is among the celebrities participating in the latest season of E4’s Celebs Go Dating. According to Grazia Daily UK, he credited his ex-wife, Chloe Madeley, with encouraging him to take part in the show. Haskell and Madeley separated in 2023 after five years of marriage but remain co-parents to their daughter, Bodhi, now 3 years old.

Co-Parenting and Trust

‘I was on the fence and she encouraged me to go for it,’ Haskell told The Sun, adding that Madeley remains a close friend and a trusted confidante. He emphasized that their relationship is built on transparency and support, calling it ‘collaborative’ and something he ‘truly values.’

According to Promiflash, Madeley described the breakup as ‘the worst thing you can imagine’ in her podcast No Parental Guidance, but both have since moved forward. They now share a ‘new kind of bond, a new relationship, and a new friendship,’ as she explained.

Personal Life and TV Ambitions

In an interview with Channel 4, Haskell said he signed up for Celebs Go Dating because he enjoys ‘trying stuff’ and ‘having fun meeting people.’ He admitted to being nervous about being on TV, especially because of his private nature. ‘I’ve been quite private about my life, really,’ he said. ‘There’s bits and pieces that make it into papers, but most of that I’ve been private with.’

He also denied any infidelity with Madeley during their marriage, responding to a question posed by relationship expert Anna Williamson during the show. ‘No, no, absolutely not,’ he said. He added that his career, which included years of rugby, DJ work, and other commitments, was a factor in the breakup. ‘I was very self-focused — a lot of travel, a lot of work,’ he explained.

Family and Future

According to Promiflash, Haskell and Madeley have maintained a cooperative approach to raising their daughter. They share responsibilities for Bodhi and work as a team on organizational matters. Both have publicly expressed a sense of mutual respect and affection despite their breakup.

Haskell, who is now 41, said he is not necessarily looking for a new relationship but enjoys ‘dating, having fun, meeting people.’ He described himself as ‘very comfortable on his own’ and emphasized that he spends a lot of time with his daughter. ‘I really enjoy that,’ he said.

The new season of Celebs Go Dating includes other well-known names such as Married At First Sight’s Lucinda Light, Loose Woman’s Coleen Nolan, rapper Professor Green, and Celebrity Big Brother winner David Potts. According to Channel 4, the show’s popularity stems from its mix of seven celebrities at different stages of life, three expert advisors, and a host, Rob Beckett, known for his humor and commentary.