Denise Van Outen Opens Up About Secret Romance with Mystery Man
Television personality Denise Van Outen has publicly confirmed she is secretly dating a new mystery man, expressing delight that her partner has absolutely no interest in the celebrity spotlight. The 51-year-old star, best known for narrating The Only Way Is Essex, revealed this development while reflecting on her past relationships and the challenges of dating in the public eye.
A Deliberate Decision for Privacy
Denise explained that unlike previous partners who sought fame and red carpet appearances, her current boyfriend works outside showbiz and prefers complete privacy. "I've not talked about it yet, but yes, I am dating someone," she told The Sun. "For the first time in my life, I have made the decision to keep it private. I don't need to reveal all the details."
She acknowledged regretting past decisions to publicize relationships, noting that "when things go wrong" the breakdown becomes visible worldwide. "I've always had partners that want to be on a red carpet and be photographed or be famous, but he doesn't want that," Denise added. "He's just got no interest in it. I think that's a good thing, because I've had my fingers burned."
Dating Challenges in Rural Kent
The performer admitted relying heavily on dating apps to meet potential partners since moving to the countryside. She joined the exclusive dating platform Raya in 2024, stating that without digital connections, her love life would struggle significantly.
"Actually, for me, dating apps are a really good thing," Denise explained. "I don't know how else I would meet people if I wasn't doing that. When I was younger, there was the option to go out, but now I live in the country, it's not like I'm able to just go to the pub. Even if I went to my local, they're all my neighbours who I know anyway, so that's of no value to me."
Being a single mother to her 15-year-old daughter Betsy, whom she shares with ex-husband Lee Mead, presents additional obstacles for nighttime socializing and meeting new people organically.
Reflections on Past Relationships and Personal Growth
Denise referenced her broken engagement to Eddie Boxshall, which ended in January 2022 after she discovered his infidelity involving phone sex with other women. "I'm not fussed either way now," she told Fabulous magazine about relationship status. "I'm really good friends with Tamzin Outhwaite and we were saying: 'Isn't it nice to actually just be loving life and not feel pressured to have to be in a relationship or be with someone?' I've learned to be on my own and be content."
She expressed concern about public perception following multiple high-profile breakups. "This industry can feel pressurised, and then when things go wrong, it's so public. You worry that people see you as a failure. I wonder if people say: 'Why can't she hold down a relationship? History keeps repeating itself,' but I'm not chasing it now."
Despite the heartbreak, Denise maintained a "positive outlook" and "open heart," though she admitted being "back to square one" after the split from Eddie. Following that relationship, she briefly dated property developer Jimmy Barba from July 2022 until their separation after approximately eighteen months together.
A Comprehensive Look at Denise Van Outen's Relationship History
Denise's romantic journey includes several significant relationships:
- Jay Kay (1998-2001): Dated the Jamiroquai lead singer for three years, with their highly-publicized relationship ending due to conflicting career demands.
- Nick Moran (2001): A brief rebound fling with the Lock, Stock And Two Smoking Barrels actor following her split from Jay Kay.
- Richard Traviss (2003-2005): Became engaged to the nightclub owner, though their relationship faced cheating allegations that both parties denied.
- Lee Mead (2007-2013): Married the Any Dream Will Do contestant in 2009, welcoming daughter Betsy in 2010 before separating four years later.
- Eddie Boxshall (2015-2022): The commodities trader relationship ended dramatically after Denise discovered his unfaithful messages to other women.
Through these experiences, Denise Van Outen has developed a renewed appreciation for privacy and selective sharing in her personal life, embracing her current romance away from the glaring public eye while navigating the unique challenges of dating as a celebrity single mother in rural England.
