Television presenter Ruth Langsford is embracing a new chapter in her life as she prepares for her second Christmas following her separation from ex-husband Eamonn Holmes. The couple, who were a staple of British daytime TV, announced their split in May 2024 after being married for 14 years.
Embracing Festive Traditions and Family
Despite the significant change in her personal life, Ruth is determined to keep the festive spirit alive. She has revealed that she finds comfort and joy in maintaining the "magical" Christmas traditions with her family, which includes her 23-year-old son Jack, whom she shares with Eamonn, and her 94-year-old mother, Joan.
In a heartfelt interview with Woman magazine, Ruth detailed her family's cherished customs. "I like to do stockings, loads of decorations and games over the Christmas period," she shared. However, the season also brings a touch of sadness as she admits she "particularly misses" her father, Dennis, who passed away a decade ago after a battle with dementia.
Looking Forward with Gratitude
Ruth's focus is firmly on the future. She describes this period not with sadness, but as an exciting new beginning. "It's about looking to the future and recognising a new chapter, a new beginning. It's exciting," she explained. This positive outlook is reflected in her thriving career.
Since the divorce, she has remained a familiar face on screen with regular appearances on the shopping channel QVC and as a panellist on ITV's Loose Women. Her professional life is a source of great happiness. "All I know is that I am happier than I've been in a long time with loads of fantastic opportunities. I am very grateful," Ruth stated.
She has also addressed the possibility of a return to This Morning, a show she previously co-hosted with Eamonn. When asked if she would host alongside her "TV son" Rylan Clark, she enthusiastically replied, "If they'd have me, they only have to ask, especially with Rylan! I love Rylan. He's like my son, really. We adore each other, and we've worked together before, so who knows?"
Cherishing Time with Loved Ones
A significant part of Ruth's new perspective involves cherishing every moment with her elderly mother. Joan lives in a care home near Ruth, and the presenter is deeply involved in her care, managing everything from appointments to shopping.
Ruth spoke poignantly about the privilege of spending time with her mum. "I speak a lot about my lovely mum and about the battle she is facing, so every year with her is a privilege. I will spend the big day with family. I always do the cooking which I really enjoy. I don't know how many more Christmases she might have and I value every bit of time I have with her."
Reports suggest Ruth is currently single, while Eamonn is said to be in a new relationship with Katie Alexander. In a recent episode of Loose Women, Ruth appeared to make a light-hearted comment on her single status during a discussion about marriage and longevity, quipping "Good to know!" when a co-panellist remarked that women often live longer when they are not married.
Fans can next see Ruth Langsford competing on Richard Osman's House of Games on BBC Two, where she will be up against Spencer Matthews, Rosie Ramsay, and Nathan Bryon.
