Bradley Walsh, the beloved host of The Chase, was previously engaged to singer Bernie Nolan before her tragic death from breast cancer in 2013. The couple dated after meeting in 1989, and Walsh proposed in 1991, but the wedding never happened.
How Bradley Walsh and Bernie Nolan Met
Bernie Nolan, a member of the pop group The Nolans, was introduced to Bradley Walsh in 1989 by Shane Richie and Coleen Nolan. At the time, the Nolans were performing a summer season at the Grand Theatre in Blackpool, where Walsh was also appearing. In a 2011 interview with The Mirror, Bernie recalled: “Shane Richie and Coleen introduced me to Bradley in 1989. They took me to see him in a show. Afterwards we chatted for the first time. It was a bit embarrassing because I already knew he fancied me, but it was awkward in a nice way.”
The Engagement That Never Led to Marriage
Walsh proposed to Bernie in 1991, and she even bought a wedding dress. However, she soon realised Walsh was not enthusiastic about the preparations. She said: “I went shopping with my mum and bought a wedding dress. But Bradley just wasn’t interested in any of the preparations. It had become obvious that getting married to me wasn’t what he wanted, so to save myself any more stress and heartache I suggested we shelved the wedding and luckily the shop took my dress back.” The couple eventually split, but both moved on to find happiness elsewhere.
Bernie Nolan’s Later Life and Death
After her relationship with Walsh, Bernie Nolan married drummer Steve Doneathy. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010 and died on July 4, 2013, at the age of 52, after a three-year battle. Walsh has spoken fondly of their time together, describing it as a cherished part of his past.
Bradley Walsh’s Happy Marriage
Walsh married Donna Derby in 1997, and the couple have been together for 29 years. They have a son, Barney Walsh, who co-presents Gladiators with his father. Walsh also has a daughter, Hayley, from a previous relationship. Today, Walsh continues to host popular shows including The Chase, Blankety Blank, and The Wheel of Fortune.
