Clare Balding has revealed that her wife, Alice Arnold, has the power to veto her television opportunities. The broadcaster, who became a national treasure after her 'levergate' moment on Celebrity Traitors, said she trusts Alice completely to make the right decisions for her career.
Balding, who has been with Alice since 1999 and married her in 2015, explained that Alice is brutally honest. 'She's not going to tell me I'm wonderful if she thinks I haven't been wonderful,' Balding told the Mirror. When Alice says no to a TV offer, Balding listens. She recalled a recent offer that Alice rejected, saying it wouldn't teach her anything and she might not enjoy it.
Balding's appearance on Celebrity Traitors was approved by Alice, despite Balding's infamous lever-pulling mishap. She admitted the mistake was typical of her impulsive nature, but she loves how the show resonated with fans, especially young children. She remains in touch with fellow cast members and praised the show as a phenomenon.
Balding also discussed her habit of giving unsolicited advice, which Alice often admonishes her for. However, she sees it as using her platform for positive purposes, particularly in promoting women's sports since the 2012 Olympics. Additionally, she is working with BT to encourage people to switch from landlines to digital before the analogue lines are retired in January 2027.
