Jake Quickenden has been flooded with messages of love and support as he marked his first birthday since his split from wife, Sophie Church. The TV personality and presenter had been married to Sophie for four years. They also share sons, Leo, five, and 16-month-old Kit, together.
It was in June, after speculation that his relationship had come to an end, that Jake took to Instagram with a picture of himself, Sophie, their sons and Sophie's son, Freddie, alongside which the I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here star said: "Thought maybe I should tell you what’s going on right now.
Separation announcement
"Me and Sophie have unfortunately separated it’s been a few months now, tried to keep it private for us to come to terms with it and navigate it properly, while it also involves our beautiful children. But sometimes things are taken out of our hands, I guess it’s kinda hypocritical from my side, sharing my life on social media but then wanting privacy in a super hard moment. But we did just want to deal with it together."
Jake went on to speak highly of Sophie, but admitted that as a couple they "just grew apart." The former X Factor contestant added at the time: "For now, I’m going to be concentrating on the boys, co-parenting in a healthy, loving way, which I know we will 100% be able to do because we are already doing that.
"When the dust settles, we will be popping round to each other's for a brew to chat about the kids, and like I said, I want nothing but the best for Sophie. Been a tough few months, please be kind to both parties, and also didn’t even wanna do a cringe post like this, but for certain reasons had to. Thanks Jake."
Birthday reflections
Months on and on Thursday (September 3) Jake said he felt 'relieved another year is done' while marking his birthday. Alongside a string of photos on Instagram, he wrote: "It’s my birthday, but I’m celebrating it differently this year…
"This year has been the most testing of my life and I’m not going to lie I’m so happy I’m turning 38…. I’ve faked a smile almost everyday. 37 had glimpses of happiness mainly from my boys, but I’ve felt anxious and burnt out pretty much all the time." He said that: "Separating, moving house, finding myself again and starting from scratch is terrifying."
He concluded: "But I’m 38 now, I don’t need to party, I just want to be happy, work to earn money to live a nice life with my lads. I’ve been a terrible mate as well. I’ve not got back to people, I’ve cancelled plans and made excuses. But that’s just the way I’m dealing with a big change. Sorry if I’ve been quiet. 38, let’s see what you’ve got… it can’t be as hard as 37."
Messages of support
And it wasn't long before the messages came flooding in. Presenter Ulrika Johnson said: "Happy Birthday, gorgeous man. With your mum by your side you’ll be absolutely golden." Former Coronation Street star Georgia May Foote replied: "Happy birthday bruhhh. You got this."
@deborahbaker65 shared: "Frstly .. Happy birthday!! Secondly yep it’s bloody tough and different for each person , but you are a survivor. You’re determined, fab dad, son and work ethic is beyond too. But you have to make time for you .. rest is important, for you mind and heart to heal. We love you Jake." @shackyl wrote: "Happy Birthday Jake you’ve smashed this year. You’ve shown up even when you probably thought you couldn’t, that’s the most challenging thing. Your boys are lucky to have you."
@cheryl71925 commented: "Awww this made me cry. Happy Birthday Jake! Happier times are ahead. I've been there, it's awful but you will rebuild! Just carry on being there and loving those beautiful boys." @rachyhayden added: "Happy birthday Jake. It’s ok to take the time you need after a difficult year. Hoping things start to get better and you find your spark again in chapter 38."
