Darren Day Reflects on 'Love Rat' Label, Claims Fame Fueled Relationships

Darren Day has spoken about his public image as a "love rat," admitting that his high-profile relationships, including a notable period where he dated Tracy Shaw shortly after ending his engagement to Anna Friel, were influenced by his fame. The 58-year-old actor and singer reflected on his romantic life during an appearance on the "Suddenly Single" podcast.

Day's relationship with Friel began in 1994, during which they were together for three years and became engaged. However, two weeks after their split, Day began dating Shaw, an actress he met while on tour. He disclosed that he was "very taken" with Shaw upon meeting her and ultimately ended his relationship with Friel.

Discussing his reputation, Day expressed a dislike for the "love rat" label, stating it made him sound "like a serial killer." He also theorized that fame itself acts as a powerful aphrodisiac. "Yeah, you get famous and it is probably the best aphrodisiac for the, you know, opposite sex or same sex or whatever might be," he said. "I noticed the difference like instantly. You didn't have to chase anyone up anymore, you know. It just was it was there."

Following his relationship with Shaw, Day was briefly engaged to actress Isla Fisher, whom he described as the "first girl I've been in love with." Their engagement ended due to "hectic lifestyles."

Day has also been open about his struggles with addiction. He previously revealed that he developed a crack cocaine addiction between 2001 and 2005, which he linked to the pressures of his public persona. In 2020, he spoke about his ongoing recovery and his mental health journey, highlighting his involvement with the charity "It's OK Not To Be OK." He also shared that he went through withdrawal from substances while participating in "I'm A Celebrity" in 2023, an experience he also underwent during his first appearance on the show in 2002.