Stacey Solomon and Joe Swash have addressed speculation about their relationship in the opening episode of their new reality TV series, Stacey & Joe, after reports that Stacey was photographed without her wedding ring sparked rumours of trouble.
The couple, who held a ceremony at their home in 2022 but did not legally marry, devoted a segment of the BBC show to the period at the start of the year when Stacey was seen without her ring on several occasions. She insisted at the time that the speculation was “rubbish” and that she had forgotten to put her rings back on.
Family Concerns Over Ring Reports
In the new series, Joe admits that Stacey “started it” by not wearing her wedding ring, and says the story grew until his family became involved. He said: “It just keeps getting bigger and bigger until my mum's asking questions and my sister, and it's definitely getting out of hand and it's taking on a whole life of its own now.”
Opening the episode, Stacey joked about the reports, telling Joe: “Despite what the press say, we're still together. Much to our disappointment.”
Challenges in Their Relationship
The pair also showed a more challenging side of their union. Joe called Stacey “annoying” because she often checks whether he has completed tasks he is meant to do. Stacey, 37, admitted she has not been “available” to help Joe, 44, build a fishing lake with accommodation as her career has taken off.
She explained: “Joe keeps saying to me, 'Can you help me with the lake?' And I feel like I do want to help him with the lake, and I do want to get involved. Otherwise, he's never going to do it. He wants to give it his all, and I do think that I could help him with that if I give myself some space and let go of a few things my end then I can start putting a bit of energy into him because I don't think I've, I don't feel like I've been available.”
Family Life and Future Plans
The couple tied the knot at Pickle Cottage in 2022, but did not obtain a marriage licence, so the ceremony is not thought to be legally binding. They have a blended family of six children, including Stacey's eldest Zachary and their three youngest, Rex, Rose and Belle.
In the first episode, Joe surprises his mum by suggesting he could be open to having more children. At a family gathering with a baby, he says: “We haven't had a baby in the family for ages. It does make me broody.” His sister replies, “I thought you was done?” Joe adds: “We probably are done with having kids I reckon, but you know….”
Viewers also see Stacey decide she wants to look at another house, with Joe appearing shocked. After Stacey says she has seen a house for sale online, Joe remarks: “This is where it starts because it's like the little seed there. Then by next week we'll be moving in.” Stacey says: “Part of me would love to have more land so we could rescue more animals. I also do love an adventure. I love bringing a house back to life.” The family left Pickle Cottage in September this year.
The new third series of Stacey & Joe starts on Tuesday, November 10 at 8pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
