Former England rugby star James Haskell, 40, has described his recent physical overhaul as a 'midlife glow-up', following his separation from Chloe Madeley. The ex-flanker, who won 77 caps, has lost nearly three stone, dropping from 19st 5lb to 16st 12lb, and undergone hair and teeth makeovers.
In his new book 'Reloaded – The Good, The Bad & The Rugby', Haskell says: 'People have used the words “midlife crisis” or “a cry for help” – I say “midlife glow-up”.' He adds that the transformation has been well received, joking: 'I have never had more heat in my life.'
Haskell credits Roar Fitness, run by former British speed skater Sarah Lindsay, for helping him get 'absolutely shredded'. He says: 'I loved the torture of doing it, and it was the best shape I’d ever been in. I looked almost like a bodybuilder.'
On dating, Haskell admits he 'ends up wasting an enormous amount of time and money' and prefers meeting people in person over apps. He tried to join celebrity dating app Raya but failed after 97 referrals, saying: 'Perhaps they’re simply excellent judges of character.'
Haskell and Chloe Madeley, daughter of TV presenters Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan, announced their separation in 2023 after marrying in 2018. They have a daughter, Bodhi, three. Haskell says crushing rugby injuries make it hard to keep up with her, adding: 'I can’t pick Bodhi up sometimes.'
