In a remarkably honest and wide-ranging new podcast interview, television personality and athlete Spencer Matthews has spoken bravely about his past struggles with alcohol, revealing he feared it would cost him his relationship with his wife, I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! star Vogue Williams.
A Fear of Loss and a Turning Point
The 37-year-old, appearing on Fearne Cotton's Happy Place podcast, recounted a specific low point when his drinking spiralled. He described a night when Vogue was away working, and he consumed an entire bottle of whiskey alone. "I felt like a ****ing loser," Spencer admitted candidly. "I knew that I would lose her as well... if I carried on. But I kind of carried on."
Thankfully, the situation was defused when a friend intervened, coming over to put him to bed and preventing further drinking. This moment of clarity highlighted the severe risk his behaviour posed to his family and future.
A New Relationship with Alcohol and Family Life
Now, Spencer has his drinking firmly under control, adopting a policy of strict moderation rather than total abstinence. He explained his current mindset, stating he can now have "two or three margaritas" before stopping, a discipline he attributes to his responsibilities. "I have kids to look after. I have businesses to run. A hangover with kids is no joke," he said.
His life now revolves around his family and rigorous training for marathons, through which he raises significant funds for charity. This focus on health and philanthropy marks a stark contrast to his previous struggles.
Insight into a Public-Private Marriage
The conversation also turned to the dynamics of his marriage with Vogue. Spencer revealed that public displays of affection are not their style, with Vogue being less outwardly affectionate. "Vogue isn't one for like, you know, handholdy, kissing, cuddling," he shared, adding that a morning cuddle lasts about "20 seconds" for her, especially before brushing their teeth.
He also touched upon the unique bond he shares with his daughter, Gigi, four, while affirming he loves all his children—Theodore, six, and Otto, three—equally.
Despite recent public scrutiny, including the end of their joint podcast and Spencer changing agents, Vogue's focus remains on her family as she enters the jungle. Before her entry, she expressed that her "only real worry is missing the kids and missing Spencer", confirming she had meticulously organised everything from Christmas shopping to four weeks of food shops to ensure a smooth time for her family in her absence.
