Ryan and Adam Thomas: Family Life, Loss, and TV Careers
Ryan and Adam Thomas: Family, Loss, and TV Careers

Brothers Ryan and Adam Thomas, two of the most recognisable faces on British television, are set to appear on tonight's (August 8) celebrity edition of Deal or No Deal. Hosted by Stephen Mulhern, the duo will face the infamous Banker, with the chance to win £100,000 for their chosen charity.

Known for their successful acting careers, the brothers have often spoken about the importance of family. Their close bond, shared with younger brother Scott, has won over fans, who regularly get glimpses into their lives behind the scenes with their partners and children.

Famous Brothers

While many assume Ryan and Adam are twins due to their resemblance, it's actually Adam who has a twin brother, Scott. Scott rose to fame on Love Island in 2016 and returned for the All Stars series in 2025. Despite different career paths, the trio remain close, collaborating on a family podcast and social media content.

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Ryan, born in 1984, is the eldest, while Adam and Scott were born in August 1988. They've joked about their competitive upbringing but have also spoken emotionally about supporting each other through life's highs and lows.

Tragic Loss

The brothers' father, Manchester soul legend Dougie James, who once toured with the Jackson 5, died in November 2020 at age 72. His death followed a trip with his sons to India to explore their heritage, filmed for the ITV documentary Mancs in Mumbai. The journey retraced the footsteps of their grandfather Nolan, who immigrated from India in 1947.

Ryan previously shared: “Watching him as a showman and an entertainer was very influential, even if none of us inherited the ability to sing a note. He died of a heart attack in 2020 and it was one of the hardest things me and my brothers have been through.”

Ryan's Blended Family

Coronation Street star Ryan is a proud father of three. He shares daughter Scarlett with former co-star Tina O'Brien. Scarlett is now building her own acting career, starring in BBC drama Waterloo Road. Ryan is engaged to former TOWIE star Lucy Mecklenburgh, with whom he has two children, son Roman and daughter Lilah.

After years in Essex, Ryan and Lucy relocated back to Manchester to be closer to family, allowing the cousins to grow up together.

Adam Thomas Family Life

Adam first found fame in 2006 as Donte Charles in Waterloo Road. He then spent almost a decade playing Adam Barton in Emmerdale before departing in 2018. He returned to Waterloo Road when the series was revived in 2023.

At home, Adam shares a busy family life with wife Caroline Daly, whom he married in 2017. They have two children, son Teddy and daughter Elsie-Rose.

Adam Thomas Health Battle

Adam has spoken candidly about his health, revealing he has rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition causing joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. The diagnosis followed months of unexplained symptoms, prompting lifestyle changes and raising awareness.

He has also opened up about his mental health, admitting struggles with anxiety and self-confidence despite years in the public eye, and has emphasised the importance of seeking support and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

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