Former footballer and actor Vinnie Jones has spoken candidly about the grief of losing his wife Tanya to cancer in 2019 and the more recent death of his mother, admitting he fears 'crumbling' under the weight of his emotions.
In the latest episode of his show Vinnie Jones in the Country, Jones hosted a charity event for children affected by cancer at his West Sussex farm. He then had an emotional conversation with a father named Jim, whose son Alfie died in an accident at age 24.
Jones told Jim: 'It's hard to come to terms with, a loss like that. I know, because you will feel guilty. It's a process, mate, and it takes time.' He added that he helps other men by showing it's acceptable to talk and cry about their emotions.
Reflecting on his own grief, Jones said: 'Losing my mum, it's something that's very personal, it's a massive blow that I'm still holding in, I think. It worries me a little bit that there's been no breakdown. I don't think you can control grief and with my mum I'm trying to keep it away.'
He explained that staying busy helps him cope: 'You have to keep busy or you will crumble, and I ain't gonna crumble. It is the fear of crumbling that keeps me going, I think.' Jones previously broke down on television after his wife's death and now tries to make her proud.
Vinnie Jones in the Country airs on Discovery+.
