The Real Rooneys: Coleen's Near-Death Experience, Marital Strife, and Family Life Revealed

The recently released Disney+ docuseries, "The Real Rooneys," has provided viewers with an unprecedented look into the lives of Coleen and Wayne Rooney. The series, which followed the couple for a year, delves into the dynamics of their marriage, family life, and professional endeavors, with Coleen promising a more candid portrayal than ever before.

Marital Conflicts and Household Dynamics

Coleen Rooney revealed in the series that she has considered separation from her husband, Wayne, on multiple occasions following intense arguments. The couple admitted to going days without speaking, with Coleen expressing in one instance, "I'm hoping a break will help us to reconnect... That's if I don't kill him first."

Further strains in their relationship appear to stem from household responsibilities. Coleen stated her need for more assistance from Wayne, describing him as a "good dad but he is a bit carefree and a bit careless." She admitted that this dynamic frequently leads to arguments, and at one point confided in a friend that she was "juggling a lot and the house is not happy."

A Childhood Health Scare

A particularly poignant revelation came from Coleen's mother, Colette McLoughlin, who shared details of Coleen's near-death experience as a child. At three years old, Coleen contracted encephalitis, a condition that caused her brain to swell. "She couldn't talk, she couldn't walk, she couldn't speak, she was stumbling her words," Colette recounted. The situation became critical, leading to Coleen ending up in a coma at Alder Hey hospital. Colette described the 24 hours following her daughter's hospitalization as "touch and go," and noted that Coleen had to relearn basic motor skills. This experience inspired Coleen's parents to later provide foster and respite care for children with special needs and disabilities.

Parenting Philosophy and Home Life

Despite the challenges of raising their four sons—Kai, Klay, Kit, and Cass—Wayne Rooney has stated that he and Coleen will not hire a nanny. He explained that while Coleen is returning to work, he is present at home following his recent sacking as manager of Plymouth Argyle. He described the daily life with their children as chaotic and challenging, but emphasized the importance of being actively involved in their upbringing. "You want to bring them up. You want to be around them," he stated.

The Rooneys also offered a tour of their £20 million Cheshire mansion, which they refer to as The Morrisons Mansion. Coleen described the expansive property, built on 50 acres, as her childhood dream home. However, she admitted that the house is so large she occasionally loses track of her children within its many rooms.

Wayne Rooney's Intellectual Side

Contrary to perceptions that may have arisen during his playing career, Wayne Rooney demonstrated a more intellectual side in the series. His eldest son, Kai, defended his father's intelligence, noting his penchant for sharing "random facts about history." Coleen echoed this, suggesting that Wayne was capable academically but lacked focus due to his singular dedication to football.