MARK TELLS MICHELLE: ‘It’s your turn to step up now’

Following F another year of repeated reports their marriage was in trouble, Mark Wright and Michelle Keegan spent an intense month together in America – after their careers have kept them on opposite sides of the world. But as Michelle, 30, prepares to return to the UK leaving Mark, also 30, behind in LA, pals say they’re determined to make their long-distance marriage work. Last year, Mark said the actress would have to “take her turn” flying out to visit him, and now pals say he still feels the responsibility is on her.

A source says, “They’ve fought really hard to keep the relationship going and Mark doesn’t want them to feel like they’re going back to square one when Michelle gets home.

“He is adamant that he’s already made a lot of sacrifices to improve things, and that it’s only fair for her to spend more time in LA. He’s reassured her that they can always speak on the phone, even if that means late nights and early starts with the time difference.”

There’s been a seismic shift between the pair since Michelle left Corrie in 2013, landing multiple prestigious parts in TV dramas, while Mark mainly worked as a DJ and co-hosted Take Me Out: The Gossip. But last year, the former TOWIE star – who recently posted a snap of himself with megastar Mariah Carey – hit the big time when he landed a job co-presenting US TV show, Extra, in LA, while Michelle is yet to announce her next role.

The source says, “Mark used to feel a little bit in her shadow, but now he’s had such success, the dynamic in their relationship has changed. But ultimately, they’re both hoping this year is going to work out for the best if they make the necessary changes.”