My advice as a telly lothario? Jack should stay single Havers’ tip for godson Whitehall
HE’S a legendary lothario on telly, but Nigel Havers claims he is totally different off-screen these days.
And today he hands his 29-yearold godson – Brits host Jack Whitehall – some advice: stay single.
Three-times-wed Nigel, 66, said: “Jack doesn’t need a girlfriend. He’s very young and has just got out of a long-term relationship. He’s a single man again now.”
Jack split from long-term love Gemma Chan five months ago after six years.
And the comic was seen flirting up a storm with singer Dua Lipa, 22, at the Warner Music party after his impressive debut presenting the Brits.
Nigel, who is best pals with Jack’s dad and was in the delivery room when he was born, says Jack’s success at the Brits came as no surprise.
“He was really good,” said Nigel. “He really nails things. He’s as smart as a whippet.
“He got away with the jokes because he’s cheeky, he’s been like that since a child. He had no nerves before the Brits. I don’t know how he does it.”
While Nigel wants his godson to play the field, he is firmly settled with third wife Georgiana. His first marriage to Carolyn Cox broke down when he left his wife for his mistress, Polly Williams, who he eventually married. He admitted to a string of affairs while with Carolyn. He continues to play ladies’ men – from conman Lewis Archer in Corrie to dodgy dentist Stanley in Benidorm – but insists he’s not like his TV characters. “I enjoy playing the lothario. It’s good fun. My wife just laughs when she watches them. I’m nothing like the people I play. I try to avoid that.” Nigel returns for the 10th series of Benidorm on ITV on Wednesday as Stanley, a role he describes as a “treat”.
But he says filming passed by in a blur because of all the boozing that went on.
“It’s difficult to remember because there was too much sangria. It’s great fun, pretty much as you see it on screen.
“Before I appeared on the show I’d never been to Benidorm, I avoided it. You do see some sights over there, not the ones I’m used to seeing on my holidays.” Now he hopes to take his wife there. “I’m taking her there one day. I’m not sure how romantic she’ll think it is but it’ll be an experience. She speaks fluent Spanish so she’ll be quite useful. I will take her to the karaoke bar.”
Currently playing Serge in theatre show Art, Nigel admits acting can be gruelling and winds down in front of the TV.
“I love Sunday nights in. I watch Call The Midwife, which we love. My wife and I watch it curled up on the sofa crying. It’s my night off. John Cleese’s new show is also very charming.”
Nigel says he’s grateful to be handed great roles at his age. “I never look back, only forward. It’s the key to being happy,” he said.