Coleen Rooney Mocks Husband Wayne's Viral Whitney Houston Tribute
The former footballer admits he refrains from social media to avoid causing further embarrassment.
Coleen Rooney recently playfully teased her husband, Wayne Rooney, about his widely circulated 2012 social media tribute to the late singer Whitney Houston. During an appearance on Hits Radio, Coleen read aloud Wayne's original tweet: "Whitney has passed away. RIP u will live on forever. Cant believe it. I wanna run to u. Really cant believe this @," adding that he had forgotten to tag anyone.
Despite the tweet frequently resurfacing and becoming a subject of online mockery, Wayne defended his sentiment, explaining that he was genuinely saddened by Houston's death. He cited other artists he admires, including Celine Dion and Beyoncé, noting the shock of Houston's passing. Whitney Houston died in February 2012, with her death later ruled as accidental drowning exacerbated by heart disease and cocaine use.
Wayne admitted that he now limits his social media activity, particularly on Twitter, to prevent further public missteps. "I have to stop myself because I'll end up getting in trouble," he confessed, acknowledging that people still ask him why he is not more active online.
The couple recently launched their Disney+ reality series, "The Real Rooneys." The ten-part show offers viewers a look into the lives of the Rooney family, documenting their careers and parenting four sons: Kai, Klay, Kit, and Cass. The series explores the family's dynamics, including Coleen's return to work and Wayne's transition away from a career in football.
Recent financial filings indicate a shift in the family's income, with Coleen's earnings significantly increasing. For the 12 months ending September 2025, her company CWR 2021 reported funds of over £2.4 million, a substantial rise from the previous year's £580,779. This period coincides with Coleen's participation in "I'm a Celebrity" and the launch of her fashion line with Primark, while Wayne's role as manager at Plymouth Argyle ended. Coleen's reported £1.5 million fee for "I'm a Celebrity" made her the highest-paid contestant in the show's history. She stated that the public's support during the reality show influenced her decision to participate in "The Real Rooneys."
"The Real Rooneys" was the subject of a bidding war between Disney+ and Amazon, with Disney+ securing the rights for a reported £10 million. The show's synopsis highlights unprecedented access to the family's life, covering marital highs and lows, raising their sons, and supporting Kai's football aspirations. It promises personal revelations, career milestones, and family holidays.
In an episode of the series, Wayne discusses the couple's decision not to hire a nanny, emphasizing their desire to be actively involved in raising their children. He acknowledges the challenges of managing four children but expresses the satisfaction derived from being present in their lives.