Clare Balding has disclosed that she concealed her sexuality for almost ten years after joining the BBC as a trainee journalist in 1993. The 50-year-old presenter admitted she feared discrimination in the selection of television presenters if her relationship with a woman became known.
Balding, who came out as a lesbian in 2003 and has been married to Alice Arnold for nearly six years, said she was raised to believe that the only acceptable relationship was with a man. She expressed relief that attitudes have changed significantly since then.
In her forthcoming book, 'Fall Off, Get Back On, Keep Going', Balding emphasises the importance of speaking out, noting that people are generally kind and supportive. She wrote that the fear of others' reactions is often worse than reality.
Since coming out, Balding has enjoyed a successful career, covering six Olympic Games, the Paralympics for Channel 4, Wimbledon, and the Sports Personality of the Year Awards. She has also presented on BBC's Countryfile and reported on major royal events.
Balding previously spoke about her father's surprise at her success in broadcasting, recalling that he was 'absolutely flabbergasted' when she landed a role on Grandstand. She said his lack of belief in women's achievements motivated her to prove him wrong.
