Kate Garraway is reportedly devastated by the public reaction to her new romance with fellow journalist Liam Halligan. The Good Morning Britain presenter, 59, has been dating Halligan for three months, but widespread criticism has overshadowed the happy news.
Backlash over new romance
The ITV star has faced harsh comments since going public with Halligan, with many questioning her intentions. A source told The Mirror: "The negative comments are so upsetting for Kate."
The insider added: "She went through such heartbreak with Derek, and now she’s seeing someone who is really supportive and kind to her. She just wanted people to be pleased for her and she thinks she deserves some happiness at long last."
Public announcement
Kate confirmed the relationship earlier this year at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, telling reporters: "It’s lovely. We basically haven’t really had time for a proper date." She joked that Liam was keen to go out more often, adding: "He says to me, ‘Now we’re in the papers, is there a chance we can actually have some dates?'"
At the TRIC Awards, the mum-of-two said: "It’s early days, but it has been a great year."
Liam's perspective
Liam, a financial journalist, told Talk TV: "I’ve known Kate for years, and we’ve recently become close. We laugh a lot and really enjoy each other’s company."
He added: "In recent years for different reasons, we have both become single, against our wishes, so, in recent weeks and months, Kate and I have become good friends. This may or may not turn into something long-term, but there is a definite spark between us – and we’re both excited to see what happens."
The pair, who have known each other for 20 years, were photographed together in May as Liam prepared for a 300km charity bike ride. Kate was married to Derek Draper for 18 years before his death from COVID-19 complications three years ago.
