Reuben Owen's Co-Stars Emotional After Devastating Deaths
Reuben Owen: Life in the Dales stars Sonny and Capper became emotional as they opened up about the 'challenging' times and grief they've faced. The boys were praised by viewers for their bravery in talking about their mental health.
A Reuben Owen: Life in the Dales star was visibly emotional as he reflected on a heartbreaking loss. The popular farming series has made its return, with the young farmer documenting the triumphs and tribulations of life on his family's farm in Swaledale, North Yorkshire, having first gained recognition alongside his parents Clive and Amanda on Our Yorkshire Farm. Reuben now chronicles the various projects he undertakes in his Channel 5 programme, joined by girlfriend Jess and close friends Sonny and Capper.
During a poignant scene in Tuesday's episode, Sonny and Capper stepped away from their duties to pay tribute to tragic losses both have endured. The duo visited a memorial site, where they spoke candidly about the 'challenging' experiences they've confronted at such a young age. Capper said: 'When you lose someone, it's hard. It's not nice, so you need somewhere to be where you can just have a moment to yourself.' He continued: 'We've both been through it, we've dealt with mourning of family members and best friends. I first dealt with it when I was seven years old, and my best friend when I was 16. He was only 18 when he passed. My pal died in a road accident and I was with him 20 minutes before he died. It was a right wet night, it was horrible. He drove there and never made it back home. About half an hour later, I got the phone call... it was nasty. He was there and then he's not.'
Sonny replied: 'It's a horrible feeling,' as Capper went on to share his struggles with mental health before praising his friends for being there for him. 'I can't thank you lot enough,' he told Sonny.
Sonny then opened up about an experience he faced, breaking down in tears over the tragic loss. He shared: 'I lost my pal, unfortunately to suicide.' Wiping away tears, he went on: 'He was like a brother, I was speaking to him the night before, got the phone call the next morning. They couldn't bring him back.'
In the poignant moment, Capper added: 'It's ok to not be ok, everyone has their battles and I'm very lucky I've got you boys.' After sharing their struggles, the pair decided to start a project for a men's mental health charity involving vintage motorbikes. 'I think our pals would be proud of us,' Capper said.
Sonny shared: 'I've always struggled since he passed, it's hard everyday I think about him.' Capper added: 'Same for me to be honest,' as the pair continued their conversation about mental health.
Sonny said: 'I was lucky I got some of his ashes from his mum... he's always with me, no matter where I go, what I do.' Capper went on to reveal that he goes to his friend's grave once a month, and got a tattoo in his memory. 'A tattoo on top of my heart... he took a piece of my heart with him so he stays with mine now,' he said.
Ahead of the episode airing, Sonny and Capper were supported by fans after a preview clip was shared. One wrote: 'Well done lads ... you're helping other to know it's ok not to be ok ... always keep talking.' Another said: 'What wonderful lads and friends they are Great that they are talking about this on TV and normalising these feelings in men and showing it's ok not to be ok.' A third wrote: 'So wonderful to hear these 2 amazing young men talk so openly and I really hopes it helps others to speak up.' Someone else added: 'What amazing lads and special friendship you all have! Such an inspiration to many young people! Huge respect for being so open and honest as hard as it is I have a huge respect for you both! You should be so very proud of yourself your amazing xxx.' Yet another said: 'Amazing lads, so so important for men as well as women and everyone else to be able to feel open and safe to do this, and speaking openly on TV as well, you're amazing, it is OK to not be ok x.'
Reuben Owen: Life in the Dales airs Tuesdays at 8pm on Channel 5.
