Bradley Walsh shares that he nearly turned down huge TV role because of his wife

Comedian and presenter Bradley Walsh met his wife Donna in 1992 and the pair share a son, named Barney, who was born in 1998.

The Chase: Contestant jokes about Bradley Walsh in Corrie

Bradley Walsh almost turned down a huge television role because of his devotion to his wife, Donna. The British comedian and television presenter has enjoyed a glittering career and is best known for presenting the quiz show, The Chase.

The 64-year-old has been married to Donna Derby since 1997. Donna is a former dancer and now choreographer and the pair share a son, named Barney, who was born in 1998. He currently lives in Epping in Essex with his family.

He previously said an in interview with The Mirror: "I wouldn’t swap my missus for the world. Donna isn’t just beautiful; she’s the most fantastic wife and mother.

"It’s because of her I signed with Coronation Street. She’s the one who recognised what it could do for me even though it would mean being apart."

Bradley played Danny Baldwin in Corrie from 2004 until 2006. Bradley has also had a go with other TV shows, and has featured in Doctor Who, Law & Order UK, and King Arthur: Legend Of The Sword.

Coronation Street Cast Members

Bradley Walsh joined Corrie in 2009 (Image: Getty)

Since 2009, the comedian has been hosting the famous quiz programme, The Chase, on ITV. Bradley also previously dated Irish actress Bernie Nolan in 1989.

Bradley's son Barney has recently been involved in the spotlight after co-presenting the ITV show, Gladiators, alongside his father. He landed the role after experiencing fame in the BBC drama Casualty.

He joined the series in spring 2023 as accident-prone nurse Cameron. He also appeared in Law & Order and Doctors, as well as playing a young Arthur in the film King Arthur: Legend of The Sword.

National Television Awards - Cocktail Reception

Bradley with his wife Donna and son Barney (Image: Getty)

Despite his successful rise to fame, his role in Gladiators sparked a 'nepotism' row and received a wide range of comments from fans. He garnered a divisive reaction from viewers, with some labelling him as "annoying" and "uncomfortable".

However, plenty of fans didn't mind his presenting skills and gave Barney lots of praise. One fan said on X: "Absolutely love the new series of #gladiators.

"Memories of being a kid in the 90s come flooding back and on top, it just makes you smile. I even like Bradley and Barney presenting."

Gladiators can be streamed on BBC iPlayer.

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