Countdown Star Rachel Riley Opens Up About Marriage Struggles with Pasha Kovalev

Countdown star Rachel Riley has recently shared insights into the challenges in her marriage with husband Pasha Kovalev, known for his appearances on Strictly Come Dancing. The couple, who initially crossed paths on the popular BBC dance show, exchanged vows in 2019 and are parents to daughters Maven, aged four, and Noa, aged two.

Rachel, 38, and Pasha, 44, often showcase their love on social media, but in reality, their busy schedules lead to limited quality time together. The TV presenter revealed that their family duties often take precedence over nurturing their relationship, leaving them feeling like “ships passing in the night.”

Despite their demanding careers, with Pasha recently venturing into musical theatre with his role in La Bamba, and juggling parenting responsibilities, Rachel acknowledged that date nights are a rarity for them. The couple acknowledges that this phase of parenting is temporary and remains committed to embracing it, despite the present challenges.

Before her relationship with Pasha, Rachel was previously married to Jamie Gilbert, whom she met during her time at Oxford University. Following their split, Rachel found love with Pasha, refuting claims that the Strictly curse played a role in her first marriage ending. She emphasized that the emotional distance afforded by her participation on Strictly helped her make a necessary break.

While Rachel and Pasha are navigating the demands of parenthood and career commitments, they continue to prioritize their family bond. Rachel remains optimistic about the future, acknowledging that as their children grow, they will have more opportunities for quality time together. The couple’s journey, as shared by Rachel, offers a candid glimpse into the complexities of marriage and parenthood in the limelight.