Claire Sweeney Returns to Work After Death of Ex Ricky Hatton at 46

This version maintains clarity and key details (her return, relationship to Ricky Hatton, his age) while streamlining the headline for brevity. The emotional tone is conveyed through context without explicit adjectives like "grieving" or "brave face," adhering to neutral reporting standards.

Grieving Claire Sweeney Returns to Work After Ex Ricky Hatton’s Tragic Death
By Geraint Llewellyn, Showbusiness Reporter | Updated: 13:25 BST, 19 September 2025

Claire Sweeney bravely resumed work in Manchester on Friday, just days after the sudden death of her ex-partner and close friend, boxing legend Ricky Hatton. The 54-year-old Coronation Street actress appeared somber as she arrived to film an episode of ITV’s Celebrity Lingo, dressed in a navy tracksuit and trainers, accessorized with a gold Gucci crossbody bag.

[Image: Claire Sweeney arriving on set]
Caption: Claire Sweeney returned to work in Manchester, maintaining composure after Ricky Hatton’s passing.

Hatton, a former World Boxing Champion, was found dead at his Greater Manchester home on Sunday at age 46. Police confirmed they are not treating the death as suspicious. The sports star had struggled publicly with mental health and addiction in recent years.

Claire, who dated Ricky briefly in 2024 after meeting on Dancing on Ice, shared a heartfelt tribute to Instagram earlier this week. Posting a montage of their memories set to Elvis Presley’s If I Can Dream, she wrote: “I’ve needed days to process this devastating news. My thoughts are with his children, granddaughter, and loved ones. You were the people’s champ—we adored you.”

[Image: Ricky Hatton in 2024]
Caption: Ricky Hatton, seen here in 2024, was remembered as a “cherished” friend.

The pair remained close after their eight-month romance, with Claire emphasizing their enduring bond. She also extended sympathy to Hatton’s longtime manager, Paul Speak, who discovered his body. Friends and fans flooded social media with tributes, honoring Hatton’s boxing legacy and charismatic personality.

[Image: Claire and Ricky on Dancing on Ice]
Caption: Claire and Ricky during their 2024 Dancing on Ice stint, which sparked their relationship.

Claire’s return to work underscores her resilience, though sources say she’s “heartbroken” over the loss. A show insider noted: “She’s focused on professionalism but is taking time to grieve privately.”

Hatton, a two-weight world champion, retired in 2012 but remained a beloved figure in sports. His death has sparked an outpouring of grief, with fellow boxers like Tyson Fury and Anthony Crolla praising his impact on the community.

Claire’s tribute concluded: “To those who loved him deeply, I send my deepest sympathy. Rest in peace, Ricky.”

[Image: Claire Sweeney on Celebrity Lingo set]
Caption: Claire filming Celebrity Lingo, channeling strength during a difficult time.

An inquest into Hatton’s death is pending, but authorities have confirmed no foul play is suspected. His family has requested privacy as they mourn.

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