Coronation Street actress Claire Sweeney was asked about her romantic life after the heartbreaking loss of her former partner and Dancing on Ice co-star Ricky Hatton.
Former Brookside star Claire Sweeney has shared an update on her love life following the passing of her ex-boyfriend Ricky Hatton. Earlier this month, the Coronation Street actress admitted she was devastated by the former boxer’s death, and has now revealed she plans to remain single for the moment.
Claire and Ricky struck up a romance after meeting on Dancing on Ice last year, but their relationship came to an end after eight months.
Speaking previously about their split, she told The Sun that she was “all good” and confirmed they had decided to stay friends.
In a recent interview with Best Magazine, the 54-year-old gave fans an update, saying: “No, I’m single. I’m not on any dating apps either.”
During the same chat, she shared her delight for co-star Dame Maureen Lipman, 79, who recently tied the knot for the second time.
When asked if she might consider marriage herself, Claire simply replied: “Who knows?”
Claire was previously in a long-term relationship with Billy Oakes, which lasted six years before ending in 2007.
After that, she became engaged to Daniel Reilly, with whom she shares her son Jaxon. Despite speculation that she had been married in the past, Claire clarified last year that she never has been.
Looking back on her time as Lindsey Corkhill in Brookside, she revealed the only time she’s ever been a bride was on screen.
Sharing memories on Instagram, she wrote: “The only time I’ve ever been married was on telly in Brookie, to the lovely Peter, played by Sam Kane – who later married @lindalusardi in real life. Happy times in Brookie. Who knows… maybe Steve McDonald next, or maybe Cassie’s too busy poisoning Kenny.”
In recent years, Ricky Hatton had been Claire’s only publicly acknowledged partner. The boxing legend was sadly found dead at his Hyde, Greater Manchester home earlier this month, aged 46.
Greater Manchester Police later confirmed that his passing was not being treated as suspicious.
Paying tribute in an emotional post online, Claire said: “I’ve needed a few days to process the devastating news about my dear friend Ricky.”
“My thoughts are with his family, especially his children Campbell, Millie, Fearne and Lyla, as well as his granddaughter,” Claire said.
She added: “Ricky, you were the people’s champ. We loved and treasured you. I’ll love you forever.”
The sad news followed Claire opening up about her single life.
Speaking on the Sunday Mirror’s Invite Only podcast, she described herself as “very independent” and said she doesn’t feel she “[needs] to have a boyfriend.”
“I’ve got my son Jaxon, I’m busy, and I’m really enjoying where I am in my career right now,” she shared.
Claire also reflected on her grandmother’s later-in-life love story, recalling: “My grandmother met the love of her life at 86. He was 74, her toyboy. She married him, and at her 100th birthday, she said, ‘This man has kept me alive with love and laughter.’”
Claire concluded: “So if I have to wait that long to find the right person and make the right choice, then that’s fine by me.”
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