James Haskell’s New Romance After Chloe Madeley Split Will Surprise You

James Haskell appears to have found love again following his split from Chloe Madeley. The 39-year-old rugby player and Chloe, 37, daughter of Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan, announced their separation in October 2023. Despite the breakup, the former couple remains on good terms as they co-parent their daughter Bodhi, born in August 2022.

James’s new romance reportedly involves 34-year-old Helen Barclay, a single mother of two. According to MailOnline, their relationship has “become more serious in recent months.” Having been quietly seeing each other for over a year, the pair has taken steps to deepen their bond, spending more time together at their homes and on various dates.

Helen, a striking blonde who bears a notable resemblance to James’s ex-wife Chloe, has caught the athlete’s attention, with James leaving flirty compliments like “fit” on her social media posts. The couple reportedly grew close after both experienced the end of long-term marriages. Helen recently split from her husband after more than a decade together.

An insider revealed, “James and Helen have kept their relationship relatively low-key, enjoying dates at coffee shops and restaurants and going for walks since the latter end of 2023. But recently, they’ve started to see more of each other, and they’re enjoying each other’s company.”

Although they haven’t labeled their relationship exclusive, it’s clear they’re dating. “They have a lot in common, especially both coming out of marriage splits,” the insider added. “It’s fair to say they’ve helped each other in what has been a tough period of their lives.”

James and Helen, introduced by a mutual friend, were photographed on a date at London’s celebrity hotspot Chiltern Firehouse last month. At the time, Helen’s identity was unknown.

While the relationship is blossoming, the couple isn’t rushing into anything serious. “They’re not putting any pressure on it and are just having fun together,” said the source. “They’re exactly what they both need right now.”

Chloe, who had previously championed James moving on, spoke positively about the idea of him finding a new partner. Speaking to OK!, she said, “I decided that I didn’t want to be in my relationship anymore, so I don’t get to be angry when he moves on… I’m actually kind of here for James getting a new partner because there’s a lot of positives in it.”

Chloe also praised James as a “great dad” who is “very respectful of Bodhi,” reaffirming their shared commitment to raising their daughter with love.