Ulrika Jonsson reacts as Vanessa Feltz's ex Ben says he wants to 'pursue her'

12 March 2024 , 11:41

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Ben previously confessed to being unfaithful to Vanessa (Image: Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

Ulrika Jonsson is not happy that Ben Ofoedu has made his "crush" on her public knowledge.

Ben and Ulrika split in February 2023 after over two decades of being with one another. It emerged that the former musician had been unfaithful during their relationship. Vanessa previously revealed that she discovered his infidelity on Christmas Day in 2022 before calling time on their romance.

Less than a year after their split, Ben was reportedly setting his sights on Ulrika Jonsson and made it no secret that he had a "crush" on the former Gladiators presenter. However, Ulrika, 56, has now responded and it's fair to say she's not keen on the idea.

Ulrika is not happy with Ben's comments (WireImage)

Ben was previously in a relationship with Vanessa Feltz (Getty Images for Orion Books)

"I don't know him," she said, adding: "And I'm not interested. We have a girl code, don't we?" Speaking to Closer magazine, she went on to say: "I don't want to be unfair to him but yes, it was a bit awkward, God love Vanessa. I was thinking 'Should I say something to Vanessa?'"

Speaking previously to the Mirror, former The Apprentice candidate Ryan-Mark Parsons revealed his pal Ben was interested in Vanessa. He said: "Ben is very much interested like a lot of men are, who can blame him? She is stunning. Ulrika has always been someone admired by men.

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"I worked with Ulrika for three months, I know Ben very well, and I know they would get on like a house on fire. Ben loves red wine, Ulrika loves rum - go and have a drink together. They would make a very good pairing. He's very open about what he thinks of Ulrika too. I think it's been bubbling away and I hope they take things forward and see if there's a spark there."

Vanessa, 62, was said to be "humiliated and hurt" by Ben's comments about Ulrika. According to an insider "Ben's behaviour is humiliating for Vanessa, but she's stronger than ever at the moment and can pick herself back up from anything." After their break-up, Vanessa spent a long time in shock, dreading the thought of spending a night alone - but now, she realises she's better off alone than being with Ben.

Earlier this month, the former flames had a near-miss as they both attended the same event on London's West End. Ben was accompanied by his rumoured new girlfriend, reality TV star Precious Muir, 34. Although a source said Vanessa had "no idea" her ex was also there, Ben later stated on his social media: "Reportedly, she saw me and it's a shame she didn't come up and say hello."

Daniel Bird