At 42, TV presenter Helen Skelton has shared heartfelt insights into her family life and the choices she’s made following her separation from former rugby player Richie Myler in 2022. Speaking to Prima Magazine, she revealed that if circumstances were different, she would have loved to expand her family further.
Helen, best known for hosting BBC1’s Morning Live, explained that it’s not the challenges of parenting that hold her back, but rather the desire to give each child the attention they deserve. “I would have had more kids until this stage – I really would. I really like it. The no sleeping and no routine – working in telly is really good training for that. But I’m really conscious I’m at that stage where they all really want me, and I want to be there for them all.”
Mother to three children—Ernie, Louis, and Jessica—Helen describes life as both joyful and demanding. “I used to stress about coming back to work after having my kids, but now they love what I do,” she said. She fondly shared how her eldest, 10-year-old Ernie, is disappointed each year that she can’t participate in Strictly Come Dancing, and how her kids often embarrass her with their honest and amusing remarks, like proudly telling others, “My mum’s Helen Skelton!”
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With life’s fragility in perspective, Helen emphasizes the importance of living in the moment. Having lost family members young, she treasures every day with her loved ones. “I think every year is a gift. I’ve lost family really young – in their 20s – so I don’t take anything for granted.” She shared how close she remains to her father, mother, and brother, and how she embraces spontaneity: “Nothing’s promised. So I’m big on saying yes – go for lunch, go away for the weekend, stay up late, have the pizza.”
Helen also offers a down-to-earth perspective on wellness culture, encouraging people to take the pressure off. “Everyone gets so obsessed with resolutions – no sugar, early nights, herbal tea – but, honestly, laughter and time with your mates are just as good for you. Spend time with people who make you belly laugh – that’s the real reset.”
Her relaxed approach extends beyond life philosophy to her public appearances and beauty routine. Rather than relying on stylists, Helen once changed outfits in the toilets at the BAFTAs and squeezed into her gown for the National Television Awards. “If you create that level of chaos, you don’t have time to overthink,” she chuckles.
When it comes to beauty, Helen keeps it simple: “I’m boring when it comes to beauty. I just wash my face and put on moisturizer.” She admits to occasionally using Botox but remains casual about it, saying, “There’s plenty I’d change about my face – but there’s no point going down that route. Where do you stop?”
Helen’s candid reflections serve as a reminder to embrace the unpredictable joys of family, laughter, and living authentically.