For seven months, the question of whether Morning Live co-hosts Helen Skelton and Gethin Jones are a couple has captivated their fans, yet the presenting duo remain steadfastly silent on the matter. Their ongoing 'will they, won't they' narrative, however, is now reported to be causing frustration behind the scenes at the BBC.
The On-Screen Chemistry Spilling Off-Camera
Rumours of a romance between the two presenters, famed for their effortless on-screen rapport, first ignited in early 2024. The pair have been spotted on a series of cosy outings and have been effusive in their praise for one another on social media. Their apparent closeness has been a source of particular delight for supporters of Helen Skelton, who was tragically left by her husband Richie Myler in 2022, just four months after the birth of their third child.
Despite the intense public curiosity, Skelton and Jones have never directly addressed their relationship status. Instead, they have opted to drop a trail of tantalising hints. These include being photographed leaving BBC studios together, making joint red carpet appearances such as at the Pride of Britain Awards in October, and skilfully deflecting direct questions about their romance.
A Brief Split and the Search for the 'Next Richard & Judy'
The plot appeared to thicken when speculation arose of a brief split, after Gethin Jones was reportedly seen on the exclusive celebrity dating app Raya in mid-2024. An insider suggested at the time that his presence on the app, while in Australia watching rugby, indicated he was single. "There is no way Helen would stand for that if they were together," a source told the Daily Mail.
However, the rumours were swiftly rekindled weeks later when the pair made their official red carpet debut together. This ongoing saga unfolds against a backdrop of reported BBC ambitions to find the 'next Richard and Judy' – a presenting couple whose real-life chemistry could replicate the ratings success of the iconic ITV duo.
Bosses Seek Clarity Amid Ongoing Speculation
The prolonged refusal to confirm or deny the relationship is now said to have irked BBC producers. An insider revealed in October that there is a 'common feeling that it’s time for Helen and Gethin to confirm where they stand and stop playing around with the viewers.' The call for clarity has grown louder as the mystery continues.
Helen Skelton, however, remained tight-lipped in a recent interview with Prima magazine. When questioned about Gethin, she focused on their long-standing friendship, stating, 'I've been friends with Michelle and Gethin for 25 years... We're such good mates that sometimes we forget we're on air.' She made no reference to a romantic involvement.
Both presenters have significant past relationships. Skelton was married to rugby league player Richie Myler for nine years before their 2022 split. Jones was famously engaged to Welsh opera singer Katherine Jenkins for ten months in 2011, and has since had relationships with Lucy Mecklenburgh and others. Friends suggest Jones has been a rock for Skelton following her difficult divorce.
Their connection has been evident at numerous events, from charity balls to award ceremonies, where eyewitnesses have described them as 'tactile' and 'undeniable'. As the speculation enters its eighth month, the pressure from bosses and fans for a definitive answer only intensifies, leaving the nation wondering if this showmance will ever be officially confirmed.
