Former England rugby union star James Haskell has opened up about his dramatic physical and personal transformation, which he dubs a 'midlife glow-up', two years after his separation from television personality Chloe Madeley.
The 'Mad Body Transformation'
The 40-year-old sportsman, who won 77 caps for his country, has undergone a significant change in his appearance. He has shed nearly three stone, dropping from 19st 5lb to 16st 12lb, achieving a physique he describes as 'absolutely shredded'.
Haskell credits his remarkable body transformation to training with Roar Fitness, which is run by former British speed skater Sarah Lindsay. He admits he 'loved the torture of doing it', stating it was the best shape he had ever been in, looking almost like a bodybuilder.
Life After Marriage and a New Chapter
James and Chloe Madeley, daughter of TV stars Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan, announced their separation in a joint statement in 2023 after marrying in 2018. The former couple share a three-year-old daughter, Bodhi.
In his new book, Reloaded – The Good, The Bad & The Rugby, a spin-off from his popular podcast, Haskell lifts the lid on single life. He confesses that he often ends up 'wasting an enormous amount of time and money dating' but expresses a preference for meeting people in person over using dating apps.
He humorously notes the positive reception to his new look, saying, 'I have never had more heat in my life, if you get my drift. It's harder to go home on my own at the moment!'
Beyond the Glow-Up: Injuries and Fatherhood
Despite his outwardly impressive physique, Haskell reveals the lasting impact of his rugby career on his body. He admits to struggling with injuries, making it difficult to keep up with his young daughter.
'I struggle just to walk properly,' he says. 'I used to have good days and bad days, but now it's just bad days. I'm due to have an operation... I can't pick Bodhi up sometimes.'
Reflecting on his life now, the former flanker describes it as a 'rollercoaster of emotion, fun, stories you have never heard', adding the poignant note, 'Me, my world's falling apart but I am still smiling.'
