Joe Marler Opens Up on Redefining Masculinity and Family Bonds
Retired rugby union player and Celebrity Traitors star Joe Marler has offered a rare glimpse into his personal life, reflecting on what it means to be a man in 2026 while raising four children after severing contact with his own parents. The former England prop, known for his sharp wit and candid nature, shared his thoughts in an exclusive interview, emphasising kindness, vulnerability, and the critical need for men to openly express love.
Rejecting Toxic Influences and Embracing Vulnerability
Marler, 35, who played for Harlequins in Premiership Rugby, was unequivocal in his criticism of online figures like Andrew Tate and Harrison Sullivan, whose misogynistic views have sparked controversy. "That is not a man, that is a scumbag - avoid them like the plague," he stated, denouncing their toxic "manosphere" ideologies. Instead, he advocates for a gentler, more compassionate approach to masculinity. "Being kind, being gentle, showing strength and vulnerability, knowing that vulnerability isn't weakness," Marler explained. "I'm still trying to work it out, and as long as you're open to admitting that, I think it's a good place to start."
Family Life and Parenting Challenges
Father to Jasper, 12, Maggie, nine, Felix, six, and Pixie, four, with his wife Daisy, Marler highlighted the joys and trials of parenting. The couple, who met at school in Heathfield, East Sussex, married in 2017 and now reside in Sussex. Marler stressed the importance of telling his children he loves them, even when met with resistance. "Sometimes they don't say it back, sometimes when they're in a tantrum they'll say I hate you - that's part of being a parent," he said. He also acknowledged navigating the complexities of raising a pre-teen son, with Daisy offering sage advice to "give each other a break" during hormonal changes.
Campaign for Men's Mental Health
Marler is partnering with beer brand Beavertown and men's mental health charity Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) on a new initiative. Research from CALM reveals that six in 10 men have never told their best friend they love them. "What is the point of having friends and family if you're not going to tell them that you love them?" Marler questioned. He aims to normalise such expressions among men, countering perceptions of weakness. "We've seen it as being soft or weak or feminine to say, as a man, that you love your friends. We need to do it more, and normalise it."
Retirement and Personal Struggles
After retiring from professional rugby in November 2024 following a 17-year career and 95 caps for England, Marler described the transition as a "rocky road." He joked about the lack of "pipe and slippers" upon retirement, noting it felt more like unemployment. Despite the challenges, he feels fortunate to have retired on his own terms, not due to injury. Marler has been open about his mental health, having experienced breakdowns in 2016 and 2018, and credits his wife Daisy as his rock. "I probably wouldn't be sitting here now" without her support, he admitted.
Life Beyond Rugby and Reality TV Ventures
Since retirement, Marler has explored new avenues, including appearing on BBC's Celebrity Traitors in October 2025, where he reached the final. He enjoyed the experience, particularly the missions and bonding with celebrities like Stephen Fry and Joe Wilkinson. However, he remains hesitant about other reality shows, citing a lack of dance skills for Strictly Come Dancing and claustrophobia for I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! On a lighter note, he expressed interest in Celebrity Naked Attraction, quipping, "If they ever come knocking, sign me up."
Future Aspirations and Personal Growth
Looking ahead, Marler plans to learn to swim to keep up with his children on holidays, acknowledging his current limitations. "I need to learn how to swim for my kids," he said, adding that cold water dipping has been beneficial for his mental health. He also continues to host his popular podcast, Joe Marler Will See You Now, and remains focused on his family and advocacy work. Through it all, he emphasises the importance of openness and support, urging men to break down barriers and embrace emotional honesty in their relationships.
