TV presenter Richard Madeley, 68, has addressed rumours surrounding his youthful appearance and hair colour during a candid interview on the White Wine Question Time podcast, hosted by Kate Thornton. The veteran host of Good Morning Britain spoke openly about ageing, his hair, and his long-standing career in television, revealing a few of the secrets behind his fresh-faced look.
Madeley, who first found fame alongside his wife Judy Finnigan on This Morning, tackled persistent speculation that he dyes his hair. While many have assumed his lighter hair is the result of highlights, Richard was quick to clear the air. “I’ve been accused of actually dyeing my hair lighter, which I always happily and honestly refute,” he stated. “It’s funny, I’ve kind of come full circle!”
Explaining his naturally light hair from childhood, Richard noted that it had darkened over the years but now has a greyish hue. Spending time at his “little place” in the south of France contributes to his lighter locks, with the sun gradually lightening his hair over time. When he returns to the Good Morning Britain studio, some viewers have speculated about whether he’s had his hair professionally treated. However, Richard credits his outdoor lifestyle for the change, not hair dye.
Kate Thornton remarked that Richard could easily “pass for a man much younger” than his age, prompting him to reflect on how his appearance has evolved in front of the camera. Richard suggested that his gradual ageing might be attributed to his constant presence on TV, as viewers have watched him age over the years without any long absences. “Don’t you think that’s because I’ve not actually ever been off… So, you know, I’m ageing slowly on camera because I haven’t been away for like five years or 10 years,” he explained.
Richard also highlighted the importance of maintaining his weight as part of his strategy to stay youthful as he grows older. He mentioned keeping an eye on the scales as a priority, especially during middle age, describing it as an essential part of managing his health and appearance.
During the interview, Richard also spoke about his wife Judy Finnigan, 76, and her life away from the spotlight. Judy stepped away from regular television appearances around 2015 and has since devoted herself to writing novels, with her latest book, Roseland, published in 2023. Richard shared that Judy is “really enjoying” her post-TV life, and though they’ve worked closely together in the past, she’s found a new passion in her literary career.
Despite her retirement from television, Judy remains a strong presence in Richard’s life, frequently challenging him, as Richard admitted. He confessed, “I think, to be honest, she challenges me more than I challenge her, but that’s probably because I deserve it.” With humour, he added that their family and friends would likely agree with his assessment.
For Richard, the balance of work, maintaining his appearance, and his relationship with Judy appears to have created a fulfilling life. His consistent presence on TV screens and candid reflections on the ageing process have endeared him to fans who have followed his decades-long career.
As for his signature lighter locks, they remain naturally sun-kissed and unaltered, much to the surprise of many of his viewers.
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