Linda Robson Reflects on Separation from Husband Mark Dunford After Three Decades
Television personality Linda Robson, known for her role on Loose Women, has openly discussed her separation from her husband, Mark Dunford, concluding their 30-year marriage. The actress, aged 67, has been candid about the factors contributing to their split, including dissatisfaction within their marital relationship. In recent times, she has spoken frankly about her disappointment concerning their intimate life.
Reasons for Separation
Robson previously revealed that she and Dunford, the father of her two adult children, Louis, 32, and Bobbie, 28, had “simply drifted apart.” She also admitted to a marriage devoid of intimacy, describing herself as ‘celibate.’ The Loose Women star had earlier confessed to losing romantic feelings for Dunford, expressing no desire to seek new romantic connections, even dismissing the prospect of future intimacy.
Early Encounters and Marriage
Linda and Mark’s paths initially crossed during their teenage years, but their romantic relationship commenced much later. In 2017, she recounted, “I used to babysit for Mark; he was younger than me… I was 16, and he was 13 and a half. He was a bit of a nuisance, to be honest. We lived in adjacent streets.”
They reconnected unexpectedly in a park, leading to a courtship and marriage in 1990.
Marital Challenges and Celibacy
Subsequently, Linda shared details regarding her three-decade-long marriage. On the ITV program Loose Women, she addressed marital difficulties, acknowledging that their relationship had not been without its challenges and that she had, at times, considered herself ‘celibate’.
Linda unveiled a notable aspect of her bond with Mark, once regarded by her as her ‘rock’, stating directly that they had not engaged in sexual relations for two years – a situation she seemed to accept without concern. “Can I just say I’ve been celibate for two years?” she declared. “I’m not interested in all that [romance]. I am content spending time with my friends, children, and grandchildren.”
Living Together Amidst Separation
Despite prior difficulties leading to their separation last year, she had stated, “We are still living together. Our children are our utmost priority; naturally, all marriages encounter some obstacles. After 33 years of marriage, it’s unrealistic to expect a completely smooth journey, but we are currently still together.”
Embracing Single Life
Later, she officially confirmed their separation in an interview with Woman magazine, embracing her newfound independence. Reflecting on her former spouse, she noted, “He is a very good father, and we shared some positive years, but ultimately, it was time to move on. I have my family and children around me. I am also planning a cruise with Lesley Joseph in November. I’m keeping active.”
Divergent Paths
In a forthright discussion with OK!, she admitted that their lives had diverged, observing, “Sometimes, people do grow apart, don’t they? We lacked common interests. I am very sociable, whereas Mark never appreciated that aspect.”
Focus on Family and Future
The mother of two attributed the longevity of their 30-year union to their shared commitment to providing stability for their children, who are now ‘grown’ and leading independent lives. Presently, Linda is happily embracing her single status and is not seeking a new partner.