Joe Marler's Devastating Concussion: A Moment He Forgot His Own Children
Former England rugby international Joe Marler has opened up about a harrowing concussion incident that left him emotionally shattered, revealing he temporarily forgot he had children. The 35-year-old sports star, known for his appearance on BBC's Celebrity Traitors, shared this deeply personal story during a reunion with host Jonathan Ross on ITV's The Jonathan Ross Show.
The Traumatic Rugby Injury That Erased Memory
Marler described how a severe concussion during his professional rugby career created a frightening memory gap. "The concussions were bad for me," he confessed. "I remember tackling this big unit... I woke up in the physio room." The situation became profoundly distressing when the team's kit man inquired whether Marler's children had attended the game.
"I said, 'What kids?' I went, 'What? I've got kids?'" Marler recalled. "I just started bawling my eyes out. I'd completely forgotten that I had kids." This traumatic experience contributed to his growing concerns about long-term health during his final playing years.
The rugby star explained his shifting perspective: "It wasn't until the last couple of years in my career [I'd think] 'I'd quite like to be around, be fit and well to have a kick about outdoors [with my kids], jump on the trampoline without prolapsing.'"
Celebrity Traitors: A Life-Changing Experience
Marler's appearance on Celebrity Traitors marked a significant turning point in his career transition from professional sports to entertainment. "I had so much fun, mate," he told Ross about the BBC game show. "I've sort of realised that out of all of the cast that was part of it, I probably have milked it hard, haven't I?"
The former rugby player revealed the program's profound impact: "It has changed my life, to be fair. I'm just trying to ride that wave for as long as I can, until what my wife says will happen: 'Make hay while the sun shines, you'll soon become irrelevant and/or cancelled.' She's a real grounder for me."
Marler made a strategic decision to prioritize Celebrity Traitors over completing his rugby contract. "The Traitors came up as an opportunity to do. It was during my last year of contract, so I had to make a decision," he explained, adding simply: "It worked out."
Traitors Strategy and Aftermath
During Celebrity Traitors, Marler developed a notable dynamic with Jonathan Ross, ultimately helping to correctly banish Ross when he was revealed as a Traitor. Marler progressed to the final alongside fellow contestants David Olusoga, Alan Carr, Cat Burns, and Nick Mohammed.
After successfully voting out Traitor Cat Burns, Marler's journey ended when remaining Faithfuls David and Nick mistakenly eliminated him next. This strategic error allowed comedian Alan Carr, the last remaining Traitor, to claim victory alone.
Fellow Guests Weigh In on Traitors Experience
The episode featured additional celebrity guests including comedians Aisling Bea, Romesh Ranganathan, and Roisin Conaty, plus American soul musician Jalen Ngonda. Conversation naturally turned to The Traitors franchise, with Bea expressing both interest and apprehension.
"No, I've not been asked. I would love to do it," Bea admitted. "I just don't know if I'd fall apart or crumble. If I got accused early based on my personality traits, I'd find that devastating."
Ranganathan presented a more reluctant perspective: "I don't think I'd be very good at it. I've not been asked. No, no... if I get asked, I'll say no. I don't know what the toilet situation is there, it looks like long days, I don't like the breakfast situation..."
Marler, still in game-show detective mode, questioned Ranganathan's sincerity: "Your body language has changed dramatically..." To which Ranganathan responded with a laugh: "Joe, we're not playing the game now."
The Jonathan Ross Show featuring Joe Marler's emotional revelations and Traitors reunion airs on ITV1 and is available for streaming on ITVX.
