Paddy McGuinness has been showered with praise from fans after sharing an insight into his family holiday. The TV star and comedian, who hosted the ITV dating show Take Me Out for nine years, took his three children abroad with his ex Christine McGuinness.
The Question of Sport host and former Real Housewives of Cheshire star, who share twins Leo and Penelope and youngest daughter Felicity, announced they had split up last year after 15 years, but have since continued to live at their Cheshire home together.
Making a joint announcement on Instagram back in July 2022, the pair told their followers: "A while ago we took the difficult decision to separate but our main focus as always is to continue loving and supporting our children. This was not an easy decision to make but we’re moving forward as the best parents we can be for our three beautiful children.
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"We’ll always be a loving family, we still have a great relationship and still live happily in our family home together.
"We hope this now draws a line under anymore unwanted and unnecessary intrusion into our private life. Although we work in the public eye we ask kindly if you could respect our wishes for privacy on this matter. We’ll be making no further comment. Loads of love. Paddy & Christine."
The news came just seven months after the release of the family's moving BBC documentary Our Family And Autism which reflects on Christine, 35, and her children’s autism diagnoses.
Christine has been open and honest about her autism disorder, which she was diagnosed with at aged 33 after all three of her children also received a diagnosis.
After returning from their five-day break together, Paddy has since taken to Instagram to share a behind the scenes look at the family trip whilst sharing how 'proud' he and Christine are of their children.
The 49-year-old told his 2 million Instagram followers: "Back home from a wonderful 5 days away with the kids. We’re so proud of how well they did at the airport, this was the first time they’d been on a plane since 2019. They absolutely loved their holiday.
"Big thanks to the glorious staff at @manairportuk @easyjet @jet2pics and @zafirohotels who helped take some of the stress away. It was also a lovely gesture of Jet2 to let myself and Brendan Rodgers fly the plane home."
Fans were quick to praise the couple for their co-parenting and for raising awareness of the 'sunflower lanyard' - a discreet sign that shows that the wearer has a hidden disability and may need additional support.
@sarahcaffery68 commented: "Great parenting you and @mrscmcguinness."
@gallonkatie said: "I’m overwhelmed with the respect you have for your kids. On holidays together making life as amazing as it can be for your children. Your both an inspiration for separated families xxx."
@dave_mather1706 wrote: "Whatever your personal situation is, fantastic parenting effort to give your kids a family holiday, well done indeed."
@gemma_gh_day said: "Well done, sounds like a win on all levels," as @egertonelaine added: "Awe Paddy your a great dad glad you all had a fun time."
@tiffanyparr commented: "Thank you for showing us the sunflower scheme. My son is autistic and we are looking at going on a plane soon, so this will really help."
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