Jane McDonald, known for her unmistakable Yorkshire charm and powerhouse vocals, remains one of Britain’s most beloved entertainers. As she tours, releases new albums, and graces television screens with her vibrant spirit, many fans are curious: is Jane McDonald currently in a relationship? With Jane’s private life frequently attracting attention across the UK, this article takes a close look at her romantic journey, drawing on the latest news, interviews, and credible sources from across the country.
A Journey Through Love: Jane’s Romantic History
Jane McDonald’s path to happiness has not followed a straight line. Born in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, McDonald grew up in a tight-knit family and retained deep roots in her community. Her earliest relationship to make headlines was with her first husband, Paul, whom she married in 1987. The marriage was short-lived, as Jane herself later reflected, attributing the split to her own realisation that she had made a mistake.
Her second marriage, perhaps more widely known, was to Henrik Brixen. Their whirlwind romance blossomed aboard a cruise ship—fitting, given Jane’s later fame as the “Queen of Cruise.” Their relationship gained public attention during the BBC television series The Cruise, and the couple married in 1998. Despite the excitement and Henrik later becoming Jane’s manager, their marriage ended in 2003. Jane has since spoken candidly about the challenges of marrying someone involved in her career, suggesting their split was influenced by his belief that her success depended on his stepping away. She has always spoken fondly of Henrik and the sacrifices made at that time.
Love Regained: The Story of Jane and Eddie Rothe
After weathering divorce, Jane rekindled a relationship with musician Eddie Rothe, whom she had previously dated as a teenager in the early 1980s. Their paths crossed again in 2007, and the romance was swiftly reignited. Eddie, known for playing drums in The Searchers, proposed to Jane on Christmas Eve 2008. The engagement marked a joyful new chapter in Jane’s life, supporting her through bustling years of touring, television, and family commitments.
The bond between Jane and Eddie was deep and genuine, evident to colleagues and fans alike. Jane often referred to him as her soulmate, crediting his support and love as essential to her happiness. The two never married but considered themselves life partners.
Heartbreak and Grieving: Eddie Rothe’s Passing
In March 2021, Jane McDonald experienced a tremendous personal loss as Eddie Rothe passed away after a battle with lung cancer. Jane broke the news with heartfelt messages on social media, expressing gratitude to the NHS and hospice staff during an unimaginably difficult time. Speaking to UK publications, Jane described the experience as the “biggest shock ever,” revealing how losing her fiancé and her mother in close succession forced her to rebuild her life from the ground up.
Her openness about grief resonated with many across the UK. She has frequently reached out to fans who have endured similar losses, saying she knows how they feel and encouraging them not to lose hope. Jane has credited her career and strong group of friends for sustaining her, suggesting that returning to music and engaging with supporters has been a crucial lifeline during dark days.
Is Jane McDonald in a Relationship in 2025?
As of mid-2025, Jane McDonald is not in a romantic relationship. Jane continues to focus on her career, her friends, and her personal well-being. Official statements and interviews confirm that she remains single, choosing to devote time to touring, television projects, and writing.
She lives on the coast, having decided to leave her long-time Wakefield home behind to embrace a new chapter alongside the sea. Jane disclosed in a recent interview that downsizing and changing her surroundings were part of her way of embracing the future. She credits her dear friend Sue, who moved in with her after Eddie’s death, as an important presence in her daily life. Their companionship helps fill the quiet moments, and Jane values having someone close during the inevitable “wee small hours in the morning” when loss feels most acute.
Jane has spoken publicly about being content with her own company. She has returned to the stage, engages with fans both online and on tour, and released her latest book, “Let the Light In: Lessons learned through life, love and laughter.” In this book, Jane shares reflections on grief, love, and personal growth, offering comfort and perspective to readers who may have experienced similar journeys.
Why Jane’s Life Story Matters
Jane McDonald’s experiences with loss and recovery are relatable for many people in the UK. Her ability to harness personal pain, turn it into compassion for others, and face the world with humour and openness distinguishes her among public figures.
British mental health charities and experts often applaud public figures like Jane who discuss bereavement openly. By vocalising her struggles on national TV and in interviews, Jane reframes the narrative around grief, making it less stigmatised and more approachable for others. Her comments that “everything happens for a reason,” and her new, “more laid back” approach to life, are testaments to her resilience and to the evolving British conversation about mental health and moving forward after profound setbacks.
Conclusion
Jane McDonald’s story is not just one of celebrity but of courage and humanity. As of 2025, she is single, focusing on her well-being, friends, and an active professional life. Jane’s candour about losing her fiancé and her ongoing journey through grief offers comfort for many, especially those in the UK who have followed her career from cruise ship singer to national treasure. Whether on stage, on screen, or in her writing, Jane McDonald continues to inspire with her resilience, humour, and unyielding positivity.
To read more click here
