Lizzie Cundy
Think Love Island for the over-40s, somewhere in Greece… Well, that idea is now a show for celebs looking for love second time around. Here, one contestant, ex-WAG Lizzie Cundy, tells all
Glamorous Lizzie Cundy, exwife of former Chelsea footballer Jason Cundy, is one of the most regular faces on the London showbiz circuit. Yet, as
best found out, there are many more layers to the charming partygirl extraordinaire. The mum-of-two (she had Josh, 23, and James, 18, with Jason) is one of the ladies – alongside fellow singletons such
as Melinda Messenger, Siân Lloyd and Nancy Dell’Olio – who escape to a Greek island on feel-good ITV reality TV show My Shirley
Valentine Summer. Not only did Lizzie’s time in the Mediterranean sun open her up to love again, but it also led the 48-year-old to make some drastic changes…
So, Lizzie, you’re back from your Greek adventure! How was it?
It was an emotional journey. I took it really seriously, and wanted to come out of the show different. We all went in at some sort of crossroads in life. For me, I felt like I was this showbiz hamster on a wheel, and I thought, ‘I’m never going to meet a guy like this!’ With all the events that I was going to, I realised there’s a lot I’m missing in my life.
What’s the concept behind My Shirley Valentine Summer?
Each of us had been through massive, messy break-ups. Like me, for example – I had a very nasty end to my marriage about eight years ago. I threw myself into work; I didn’t stop. I was on the run, running from the hurt. This show made me think about all that.
It sounds very emotional. Were there tears?
Out of everyone, I cried the most… I couldn’t remember the last time I cried before this show. I’m a big softie underneath. I think people get the wrong impression of me sometimes, that I’m quite tough and confident.
Was there any true romance in the air?
I’ll be honest, I did find that side of things really
hard. It’s difficult enough to meet someone and chat and be natural on a first date – let alone being filmed while you’re doing it! I did fall a bit, though. I will say that. This show transformed my life, in a lot of ways.
In what ways did it change your life?
I got rid of the hangers-on, the fakes and the phonies – I even blocked a few people. And I wear less make-up! I’ve realised it just doesn’t really matter. The amount I used to pile on was stupid. I’d be non-stop on the go, not eating properly, so I’ve stopped all that. This show probably saved my life. If it had carried on, I may have had a breakdown. Now I have a different attitude, and I’m saying ‘no’ to things – for the first time ever!
What did you think about the other ladies out there?
I adored them! There was honestly no bitching. They’re all such strong characters, but we got on. Nancy took a while, but we got on in the end. I’d read a lot about her in the press prior to the show. She just takes time to warm up. Aggie MacKenzie, I adore! We’re friends for life now.
Do you think women are treated differently over a certain age?
Without a doubt. Your body changes as you get older. I fought it, but this show has helped me embrace my age and be proud of who I am. It is hard dating, though. You don’t want to get hurt. I’ve had bad luck with men before. And that knocks your confidence.
You have a fab figure – do you work hard for it?
I do go to the gym. It gives me energy, but I’m not obsessive. It just makes me feel good! My body is not what it was now I’m older. I like to have a glass of wine and I enjoy a meal out. But I want to have a nice, long life with my boys, so I try to stay fit.
Do you have any regrets?
Well, I can’t say my marriage, – I wouldn’t have the boys, otherwise! Probably, going for toy boys after the split from Jason. There was no future in that. And maybe not having more time with my lovely dad – he died when I was young.
Our Shirley Valentine Summer starts on Thursday 19 July at 9.30pm on ITV
‘This show has probably saved my life’