Celebrity Traitor star Joe Marler opened up about his battle with depression and the regret he felt after a racially charged incident with another player. The former England rugby player, known for his successful career with Harlequins, spoke candidly about his mental health struggles that affected both his professional and personal life before retiring in 2024.
During an interview on The High Performance podcast, Joe shared his experience of feeling overwhelmed and described himself as “quite bipolar.” He recounted a specific incident where he racially abused a Welsh player and the emotional turmoil that followed, leading him to withdraw from an England tour to Australia.
Reflecting on a turbulent period, Joe admitted to engaging in aggressive behavior on the field and acknowledged the impact it had on his family life. He vividly recalled a distressing moment with his wife Daisy, who tearfully implored him to seek help as his mental health deteriorated.
Despite the challenges, Joe expressed gratitude for the support of his wife and children, recognizing the importance of seeking therapy and medication to overcome his darkest moments. He emphasized the significance of acknowledging his struggles and embracing the love and stability within his family.
The BBC’s show, The Traitors, featuring Joe Marler, airs tonight at 9 pm on BBC One and iPlayer.