Richard Madeley reveals Judy Finnigan is 'happy to call it a day'
Richard Madeley (L) and Judy Finnigan attend the VIP Launch of Christmas at Kenwood
Richard Madeley says wife Judy Finnigan is "very happy to call it a day" in the TV spotlight and allow her husband to do his own "thing".
The couple, who sleep in separate bedrooms because of Richard's hours, have been married for 38 years and been one of television's power couples for decades.
But Judy has moved away from the spotlight after ending her stint on Loose Women in 2015.
Richard told Bella magazine: "We were sort of pleased actually. Although, for my money, Judy was the best presenter I've ever worked with - I think she was gifted as a journalist and TV presenter - she never really enjoyed it that much.
"The actual moment, the broadcasting she did, but all the stuff that goes with it, especially for women on telly, she found it a lot of baggage to carry.
Judy Finnigan and Richard Madeley unveil eight new titles for their Spring Book Club at the Soho Hotel in 2011
"And that's why she hasn't come back into it. She's very happy to call it a day and allow me to do my thing."
Richard, who sat down at Chorleywood Bookshop's Literary Lunch to discuss his new novel, Father's Day, admitted that Judy, 76, remains his biggest critic.
She has only recently started reading his latest book, offering her thoughts over WhatsApp from her separate bedroom in their house.
In another revelation, Richard said he could end his TV hosting role soon as he's a "reporter at heart" and loves breaking news.
He revealed: "Breaking news is catnip to me; I still get a huge buzz out of it. But in all seriousness, I feel that my career arc is behind me now."
Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan attend the MORE4 TV Launch Party in 2005
He said he'd like to "go on doing" hard news for another two or three years and then he'll "see".
The trials and tribulations of Richard and Judy's marriage have been well documented, with Richard revealing in 2021 that they often have arguments.
In fact, one row developed while they were on holiday in France and Judy "didn't speak" to her husband for the first two days, as he'd forgotten to pack her summer clothes.
The marriage endures, however, and the TV couple will be celebrating their 40th anniversary in just a couple of years.