Victoria Rose, the ex-wife of former England rugby player Danny Cipriani, has publicly criticized the couple's decision to crowdfund their upcoming wedding, labeling the move as "tacky." Cipriani and his fiancée, Hollywood actress AnnaLynne McCord, are reportedly seeking to raise around £10,000 through a crowdfunding site called Honeyfund, with guests being asked to contribute between £75 and £450 towards specific aspects of the ceremony.
Rose expressed her disbelief at the couple's request for financial contributions, particularly for essential items like the marriage license. "Passing around the begging bowl is just tacky," she stated, questioning why the couple, who she believes have the capacity to earn, would resort to crowdfunding. She suggested alternative, more modest celebrations, such as a backyard barbecue, rather than an extravagant event.
Cipriani and McCord have outlined their wedding expenses on their website, where potential donors can contribute to various elements of the celebration. Rose speculated that the crowdfunding idea may have originated with McCord, suggesting Cipriani himself would typically cover such costs, referencing a past instance where he financed a funeral for her sister rather than asking for donations.
Rose, a neuroscience practitioner, was married to Cipriani from 2021 until their separation three years later. She described their four-year relationship as tumultuous, marked by Cipriani's alleged struggles with drug use, including hallucinogens and cannabis, which he detailed in his 2023 autobiography. She also noted his past confessions of infidelity.
Reflecting on their marriage, Rose characterized Cipriani as both "beautiful, invested, gorgeous" and capable of being "completely psychotic, delusional and in a high state of paranoia" when under the influence of drugs. She recounted instances of him receiving large quantities of illicit substances during their time together.
Victoria Rose questioned the couple's financial decisions, including a reportedly large engagement ring given to McCord, and suggested selling such assets to fund the wedding. She also highlighted that Cipriani left behind a significant amount of his personal belongings, including rugby memorabilia, designer clothing, and heirlooms, which she has been storing and has begun selling.
Rose contrasted her own modest wedding to Cipriani during COVID-19 lockdown with the current plans, suggesting McCord might be getting the type of wedding Cipriani had originally envisioned for him and Rose. She also noted similarities in how Cipriani proposed to both women.
During their divorce proceedings, Rose faced accusations of stealing from Cipriani's mother, which she vehemently denied and was ultimately exonerated of after a lengthy investigation.
Cipriani's father, Jay, has reportedly told Rose that he will not be attending his son's wedding in Los Angeles on August 22, citing visa issues, though Rose expressed skepticism about the reason.
Rose is planning a fresh start and is considering moving to Los Angeles herself, humorously remarking that she might attend the wedding but would not be paying for it.