CHRISTINE McGuinness has transformed her life from beauty queen to beloved TV star and autism advocate.
Here is everything you need to know about the mother of three.
Christine McGuinness is an English model and television personality.
She was born on March 10, 1988 in Liverpool.
Christine began her modelling career by entering various competitions, ultimately being crowned Miss Liverpool in 2007.
This achievement opened doors for her in the entertainment industry, leading her to participate in television shows like Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? and All Star Mr & Mrs alongside her then husband, comedian Paddy McGuinness, in 2012.
Christine became a familiar face on British television after joining the cast of The Real Housewives of Cheshire from 2018 to 2020.
Her vibrant personality and candid nature resonated with audiences, allowing her to transition into guest appearances on popular shows such as Loose Women, This Morning, and Good Morning Britain.
In 2021, she published her autobiography, A Beautiful Nightmare: My Story, providing insight into her tumultuous past and her journey toward self-acceptance.
Meeting Paddy McGuinness
Christine and Paddy McGuinness met on a night out in 2008, shortly after she was crowned Miss Liverpool.
Paddy, who was already a well-known comedian and television presenter, spotted Christine and approached her.
Their connection was instant, and they soon began dating.
The couple’s relationship blossomed, leading to their marriage in 2011.
Their family life soon became a focal point, particularly after the birth of their three children: twins Penelope and Leo, and youngest daughter Felicity.
Raising awareness for autism
In recent years, Christine has bravely opened up about her journey with autism, revealing her own diagnosis as well as the diagnoses of their three children.
Their personal experiences with autism prompted them to collaborate on the BBC documentary, Paddy and Christine McGuinness: Our Family and Autism.
This documentary highlights the challenges and triumphs of their family life, offering viewers a deeper understanding of autism and its impact on families.
It was a bit of a heartbroken moment. I was absolutely devastated by these pictures.
Christine McGuinness on her husband being seen with another woman
However, after 11 years together the pair announced their separation through an Instagram post in July 2022.
She also opened up about the devastating moment she discovered her husband Paddy was photographed with singer Nicole Appleton, revealing it made her feel physically sick.
Christine wrote in her book A Beautiful Nightmare: “My husband, arm-in-arm with another woman.
“I felt physically sick. I ran to the toilet to vomit.
“Still to this day I can remember that absolutely awful pit-of-your-stomach feeling.
“I rang him that morning before I’d read too much about it.
“He didn’t answer, which is really unusual for him and in hindsight I think he regrets not picking up the phone.
“It quickly dawned on me the reason he’d decided to stay down in London.
“It was a bit of a heartbroken moment. I was absolutely devastated by these pictures.”
In 2023, Christine continued her advocacy work with the documentary Christine McGuinness: Unmasking My Autism, which garnered critical acclaim and a nomination for the National Television Awards.
Through these documentaries, Christine has provided a voice for many families navigating similar experiences, breaking the stigma surrounding autism.
A multifaceted career
Beyond her advocacy, Christine has showcased her versatility as an entertainer.
In 2022, she participated in the sports competition The Games and appeared on the reality show I’m a LA… Get Me Out of Here?.
Christine also launched a podcast with Paddy, titled Table Talk with Paddy and Christine McGuinness, where they discuss various topics, including family life and mental health.
Her contributions to the entertainment industry and her advocacy for autism awareness were recognised at the National Diversity Awards, where she won the Celebrity of the Year award for Christine McGuinness: Unmasking My Autism.
A new chapter
Since their separation, Paddy and Christine have been dedicated to co-parenting their children.
They have emphasised the importance of maintaining a supportive environment for their kids, ensuring they feel secure and loved.
Christine continues to share glimpses of her life through social media and public appearances.
With a focus on self-discovery, she is embracing her identity as a mother and an advocate, while also exploring new opportunities in her career.
Paddy has been working on his new BBC television series Paddy and Chris: Road Tripping with Chris Harris.
Their new programme sees them head out on the highway for a turbo-charged adventure around Europe.