Celebrity Traitor star Joe Marler recently opened up about his battle with depression and the regret he felt after a controversial incident on the field. The former England rugby player, now appearing in the BBC’s adaptation of The Traitors, had a successful career with Harlequins before retiring in 2024 due to mental health struggles affecting both his professional and personal life.
During an interview on The High Performance podcast with host Jake Humphrey, Marler shared insights into his challenging past, admitting to facing turbulent times and being labeled as “quite bipolar.” He reflected on a specific incident involving racial abuse towards a Welsh player, which prompted him to withdraw from the England tour to Australia.
The athlete recounted a poignant moment when his wife, Daisy, tearfully urged him to seek help as his behavior escalated at home. Despite being a devoted husband and father to their four children, Marler described losing control and reaching a breaking point where he resorted to destructive actions.
Expressing deep remorse, Marler vividly recalled a distressing scene where his pregnant wife was in tears on the floor, leading him to realize the extent of his behavior and the urgent need for professional intervention. Through therapy and medication, he gradually overcame his struggles and came to appreciate the support of his family.
Marler’s candid revelations shed light on the challenges he faced, emphasizing the importance of seeking help during tough times. The Celebrity Traitors series featuring Marler airs on BBC One and iPlayer, offering viewers a glimpse into his journey of personal growth and transformation.