25 September 2023 , 19:15
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As a widely loved comedian, Matt Lucas has brought plenty of laughs to the British public and beyond, but behind the scenes, he's had to deal with a heartbreaking bereavement. The actor and presenter tends to keep quiet when it comes to his love life, but he has been very open about the loss of his ex-husband Kevin McGee and how this has affected him.
Matt first locked eyes with TV producer Kevin at a nightclub in 2002, and in 2006, they tied the knot at a lavish, pantomime ceremony attended by 400 guests, including Sir Elton John, Charlotte Church, and Paul O'Grady. Sadly, the marriage didn't last and, just 18 months later, the couple called it quits. In October 2009, Kevin was tragically found dead at his Edinburgh flat, leaving Matt devastated. His died from suicide.
The pair tied the knot in a pantomime-themed ceremony (ExpressStar)
Matt has previously spoken openly about how he dealt with his grief (Matt Baron/BEI/REX/Shutterstock)Bereavement counselling and dealing with grief
Although the couple had parted ways at the time of Kevin's death, it's clear the loss deeply affected Matt, who has previously spoken with great warmth and affection about his late ex-husband. The Great British Bake Off Star has also spoken candidly about how he got by in the aftermath, admitting that he used food and sex as a means of dealing with his grief.
In a 2017 interview with The Sunday Times magazine, Matt reflected: "I think people respond in all different ways to grief. I thought I was very conscientious going to a bereavement counsellor and not turning to drink, which I hardly ever do — I probably have six units a year. I'm not going to start smoking again, I'm not going to do drugs. But I ended up eating lots and having lots of sex. That was how I responded. As much as anything I was trying to distract myself."
Touching tribute on 10th anniversary of Kevin's death
In 2019, Matt shared a touching Instagram post celebrating Kevin's life, to mark the 10th anniversary of his death, confessing that he still thought about Kevin "probably a hundred times a day". Matt wrote: "This is Kevin John McGee, who died 10 years ago today. I loved him more than anyone I've ever met, and still do. He was so funny and silly and clever and kind and handsome, and his smile made my heart soar. We were together for nearly six years and he made me the happiest man on the planet. In the end, he lost his battle with addiction and depression. I guess some people don't have the armour for this world."
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He added: "I think of him probably a hundred times a day, every day. In truth, I think of little else. I would give anything to see him again and maybe one day I will, but for now, I will be grateful for the time we had together and the love we shared. It was like no other."
For emotional support, you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email [email protected], visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website.