Strictly star Will Mellor reveals he split from wife 'loads of times' before they got married

Strictly Come Dancing star Will Mellor had admitted that he and his wife Michelle McSween called it quits several times before they finally made it down the aisle.

The former Hollyoaks actor made the confession while chatting to former Death In Paradise star Ralf Little on their Two Pints with Will and Ralf podcast.

The couple are celebrating 25 years together this year, having first met in 1999 on set of the musical Oh What A Night which they both starred in, the Express reports.

However, the 48-year-old has revealed that their relationship has not always been plain sailing.

Speaking to his former Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps co-star, he said: "We split up loads of times along the way...but only [over] minor bits and bobs.

"But you know what I mean when you start a relationship – long distance relationships are tough at first."

Will and Michelle tied the knot in 2007 and share two children together but Will admitted that the longevity of their union has likely been aided by his absences due to work commitments.

Some of Will's recent projects include the smash hit ITV drama Mr Bates vs the Post Office which was filmed in Llandudno, Conwy, and Tatsfield, Surrey.

His work on Coronation Street, in which he played the evil Harvey Gaskell from 2021 to 2024, was closer to home with his work being shot in Manchester.

He also appeared on BBC'S Strictly Come Dancing, which saw him in London for the live shows.

Will said: "I spend quite a bit of time away, especially with work and stuff like that. And that's not terrible for a relationship."

He added: "You know, it's nice to miss each other. Sometimes I think if you're each other's pockets every day that you can get sick of each other.

"I'm not saying I do but she probably does me. I probably drive her crackers because I'm a nutter.

"But I'd say what is important in a relationship is to keep dating. That is really important.

"Don't, once you get married, just go, 'Oh that dating s**** done - I'll go out with my mates.'"

He advised: "You've got to date your wife. Every Saturday, unless I'm working away is our night.

"We go out for dinner just me and her. We'll go see a film or whatever. That's our night. And we look forward to it."

The Two Pints with Will and Ralf podcast is available on Spotify.

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