Lydia Bright has become emotional discussing the positive reception to her relationship with Italian chef Francesco. The former TOWIE star, 35, revealed on Instagram that she was overwhelmed by the supportive messages she received after publicly acknowledging their romance.
Bright had been secretly dating Francesco for a year before sharing their relationship milestones over the weekend. Reflecting on the public's reaction, she shared a tearful video on her Instagram stories, stating, "I just want to say thank you so much to everyone who has sent me lovely messages over the last 24 hours. I don't know why I'm crying... But I just feel like, everyone has just been so kind to me."
She described the response as "overwhelming but in the best way," noting that millions had viewed her post. Bright shared that she and Francesco were amused by the widespread interest in their story.
Bright also revealed that Francesco is moving in with her. She had previously confirmed her split from ex-boyfriend Ben Davies in January 2025. Davies has since moved on with Jesy Nelson.
In a lengthy post accompanying a selfie with Francesco, Bright apologized for keeping the relationship private for so long. "I really felt the need to protect something that was still growing and when the time came to introduce the two people I love most, I wanted to give their relationship time to grow before sharing ours to you," she explained.
She detailed their first date, which lasted five hours, and how she felt their connection was special from the beginning. Bright mentioned that balancing their busy careers and her role as a mother to her daughter Loretta initially led to a slow start, but they made their time together count. She highlighted the joy of integrating Francesco into her family life, noting his patience and love with Loretta.
Bright concluded by reflecting on her journey as a single mother and how she has found happiness in unexpected chapters. "I wouldn’t change a thing, as it led me here and maybe the love you find as you grow is a little more special because of everything you’ve learnt along the way," she wrote.