ITV presenter Stephen Mulhern is a huge star in the UK, but he’s often remained private about his off-screen life
Joe Crutchley Screen Time Reporter
19:01, 28 Oct 2025
Stephen Mulhern’s rare fatherhood admission after years of being unlucky in love(Image: ITV)
Stephen Mulhern previously revealed his thoughts on whether parenthood might be in his future.
The cherished television host has remained a fixture on our screens for years since rising to prominence in the 1990s. From appearances on Dancing on Ice and You Bet! to Catchphrase, Stephen has maintained a packed schedule.
Presently, Stephen appears on ITV’s revived version of the enduring game show Deal or No Deal, where he assumed presenting responsibilities from Noel Edmonds in 2023.
Nevertheless, despite achieving household recognition, Stephen – who is thought to be unattached – typically keeps quiet about his private affairs, especially regarding romance, reports the Mirror.
Stephen is a firm favourite on TV(Image: Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images)
Last year, speculation emerged that Stephen was romantically linked with fellow ITV personality Josie Gibson. These whispers began after the pair were spotted holding hands outside a studio during the final recording of Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway.
The duo seemed quite intimate, fuelling gossip about a clandestine relationship. However, Josie subsequently dismissed these allegations whilst speaking to OK! Magazine, explaining that she and Stephen are simply “best friends”.
He usually keeps his personal life out of the spotlight
Yet, back in 2014, whilst remaining discreet about his private matters, Stephen made a surprising revelation about babies, confessing he would adore having children of his own but isn’t rushing into anything.
“Do I miss having a partner? Not really, and I think that’s because I’m very busy,” Stephen told The Mirror at the time. He continued: “There’s plenty of time for that yet and would I like kids one day? Absolutely. Of course.”
Then, referring to Simon Cowell, who became a dad at 54, Stephen said: “Simon is the example of that.”
Stephen previously revealed he wants kids(Image: Getty Images)
In 2018, Stephen opened up about his lacklustre love life. He confessed to Celebs Now: “Last time I went on a date was about four years ago. That makes me sound really sad! I need a life. I need to stop working so much.”
Back in 2008, Stephen was rumoured to be dating EastEnders actress Emma Barton, who plays Honey Mitchell on the popular BBC soap. The pair reportedly grew close while starring in a pantomime production of Snow White in Birmingham.
Neither Emma nor Stephen confirmed the rumours, but they were seen together for three years. When their relationship ended, without ever admitting they were an item, Stephen said his time with Emma came to a “natural end”.
