14 May 2024 , 09:15
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Tearful Rob Rinder was left completely overcome after Rylan Clark talked him through the devastating impact of his marriage breakdown.
The pair bonded over the breakdown of their relationships as they set off on a journey across Italy for a new series on BBC Two, tracing the footsteps of past Grand Tourists. It was a highly emotional opening in Venice as they discussed the pain of their divorces against the backdrop of Italy's beautiful landscapes over a drink.
For Rylan, things are still raw and he spoke candidly about his time out of the spotlight after splitting with Dan Neal back in 2021 after six years of marriage. He says he came close to taking his own life and that left Rob unable to fight back the tears as his friend talked through his torment as they chatted about their most challenging times.
Rob broke down after hearing the details (BBC)Rylan shared: "I think it was a culmination of my marriage breaking down and actually me stopping for the first time in 10 years." He went on to reveal how he fell into deep despair, hinting at suicide attempts and a severe eating disorder, adding: "Then, all of a sudden, I hit quite a big speed bump instead of carrying on, I just sunk."
"It was the worst experience of my life. I just went on a downward spiral. I tried to end it, I tried to finish myself off. I didn't eat, I went down to 9st. I'm 6ft 4 Rob, like I look horrendous." Listening attentively, Rob removed his sunglasses as Rylan continued: "I'm so grateful for what I've got," before confirming that he would willingly "give it all up" to spare his mother the stress caused by his ill health.
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The pair bonded after sharing a divorce lawyer (BBC)Rob also opened up about a past relationship that left him heartbroken, saying: "I was once so in love when I was in my early twenties, but it wasn't reciprocated. And it never has been." Rylan replied: "We're here once, we've been through quite a lot of stuff - what's it taught us? Nothing's forever unless it's right." The pair then shared a drink and joked to lighten the mood.
The pair have been forced to dismiss suggestions that they're dating. Angry Rylan yesterday wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter: "To the journalist that just doorstepped my mum at her house, as polite as you were, please don’t. She said you was a lovely man but she’s 71 years old and it makes me feel slightly uncomfortable. The answer is no. I’m not dating Rob Rinder he’s one of my closest friends. Next time tweet me. Thanks." .
If you need help with suicidal thoughts, the Samaritans are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Call 116 123 or go to samaritans.org. To find out more about BPD go to mind.org.uk/bpd