Title: "Kirsty Gallacher, 49, Shares Engagement Hopes with Ex-Rugby Star Darren Clayton, 39, Post-Divorce"

This version retains all key details (names, ages, professions, context) while streamlining phrasing for clarity and concision.

Kirsty Gallacher Eyes Engagement with Rugby Star Boyfriend After Divorce

TV personality Kirsty Gallacher, 49, has opened up about her hopes to marry ex-rugby player Darren Clayton, 39, following her 2015 divorce from Paul Sampson. The couple, together for over a year, met through mutual friends Gabby and Kenny Logan and are navigating life as a blended family. Kirsty shares sons Oscar, 18, and Jude, 14, with her ex-husband, while Darren has an eight-year-old daughter from a previous relationship.

Kirsty Gallacher and Darren Clayton, who began dating in 2023.

In an interview with The Mirror, Kirsty hinted at a potential engagement but expressed ambivalence about marriage: “We’d love to be engaged, but marriage? We’re so happy now—why change that? Still, it’s something we’re both open to.” She gushed about Darren, calling him her “safe space” and praising his bond with her sons, who “idolize him.”

The pair connected at a charity event, with Darren—a businessman and former Surrey rugby flanker—winning Kirsty over with his humor and support. Earlier this year, she admitted to The Sun that while Darren values marriage, she’s content with commitment sans ceremony: “An engagement would be enough. But if he wants to marry, I’d say yes.”

Darren with Kirsty’s sons, Oscar and Jude.

Celebrating their first anniversary last year, the couple enjoyed a cozy dinner at London’s Langans Brasserie, sharing snaps of their £33 fish pie and cheeseboard. Kirsty wrote, “Thank you for all you do for me & the boys. We love you.” They’ve also vacationed in Devon, where Darren’s parents reside.

Kirsty’s journey to this happy chapter followed a tumultuous divorce. She described the split as “devastating,” leading to depression and a 2016 collapse at Sky Sports. Juggling single motherhood, broadcasting, and Strictly Come Dancing took its toll, but she credits Darren for helping her heal.

Kirsty with ex-husband Paul Sampson in 2011.

Previously linked to Johnny Nelson, Laurence Fox, and Paddy McGuinness, Kirsty now focuses on her family and radio career. With Darren by her side, she’s embracing new beginnings, proving love after loss is possible.

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