James Haskell found himself in an uncomfortable situation on Celebs Go Dating after his date Kitty accused him of ruling her out because she does not drive. The former rugby player, 41, appeared visibly uneasy when Kitty raised the issue in front of the dating experts, asserting that she has much to offer as a partner and that her driving ability should not have been a factor.
The brunette expressed her disappointment, saying, 'I feel quite deflated. During my date, I really opened up and told you a lot about myself, and I feel like I didn't get the same in return. Something I wouldn't normally speak publicly about is the fact that I don't drive, and I wouldn't usually talk about that on a first date either. I feel like you ruled me out because I didn't have a license.'
However, James quickly denied that her inability to drive had any bearing on his decision. He insisted, 'I had completely forgotten that was one of the things. I certainly would never have chosen someone based on whether they can drive or not.'
Kitty countered, 'As a woman, I have so much to give, and unless I was relying on you for lifts everywhere, I don't think it should be a reflection of what I can give in a relationship, as a woman or as a lover.'
The topic of driving came up when James asked Kitty if she was a good driver during their date. She replied, 'I don't drive. I had driving lessons for two years, and I just couldn't do it. They said the only person worse than me couldn't speak English.'
Following the date, James decided to pursue another woman named Scarlett, ending his connection with Kitty at the show's mixer. He explained, 'I enjoyed talking to you, but I'm just not sure there was that spark there.' While the experts later praised him for how he handled the confrontation, they couldn't resist joking to other women vying for his attention, 'Just make sure you've all got your licenses, otherwise!'
This is not the first awkward moment involving James on the latest season of Celebs Go Dating. He was previously criticised by the experts for having 'no chat' during a mixer. When he approached Scarlett, he asked, 'Have you got a party trick?' She laughed and said, 'I'm literally talentless.' Reacting to the exchange, expert Dr Tara remarked that he has 'no game,' and Anna agreed, adding, 'No chat. I think we've identified James' problem.'
Celebs Go Dating airs on E4.
