Former EastEnders star Forbes Masson has shared with a ‘sore heart’ that he and his wife, Melanie, who found fame on The X Factor, have split after 25 years
A former EastEnders and The Crown actor has split from his X Factor star wife. Forbes Masson, who appeared on the long-running BBC soap opera in 2000 as Rodney Morris, shared the sad news on his Facebook page.
The actor, who also appeared in Red Dwarf, Taggart, and as photographer Duncan Muir in series six of the Netflix smash hit The Crown, said he had a “sore heart” as he shared the news with his online followers.
In a post shared on his Instagram and Facebook, Forbes said: “It is with a deep sadness and a very heavy and sore heart that I have to announce that after over 25 years together, Melanie and I are going our separate ways.
“I wish Melanie only love and happiness and hope she finds it. It has been a very difficult decision for both of us. Sorry to family members and close friends who are finding out this way.”
Just hours later, he penned: “Thanks to all my pals for your kind and caring responses to the announcement today. Rest assured, I am fine and in the glorious highlands. Melanie seems fine, too.
“I am not really up to talking about this to folk yet, so please don’t be upset if I don’t respond directly to messages or calls. I have Ramsay with me and I am hard at work on Lear at Pitlochry.
“It will obviously take a while to process and grieve which I will do in my own time. I have tremendous support from close friends, who I can never thank enough in this difficult time.”
His post was met with support, with actress Amanda Abbington sharing three red heart emojis. EastEnders legend Tamzin Outhwaite commented with one heart emoji. One fan added: “So sad to hear this. Wishing you both strength and healing through this journey.”
“Sending love and best wishes to you both at this difficult time,” said another. While a third typed: “Big hugs and take all the time that you need to heal.” “Loads of love to you and to you all,” penned another. Forbes’ EastEnders character, Rodney, saw him help Nicky di Marco with her maths GCSE.
But the teen took a liking to Rodney, who ignored her. However, he later reciprocated and kissed Nicky before sexually assaulting her. Rodney was subsequently arrested and released on bail before Nicky’s brother Gianni di Marco attacked him.
The character ultimately avoided a prison sentence after the di Marco family agreed to drop the charges. Away from Albert Square, Forbes enjoyed success as co-creator and co-writer of the Scottish comedy series The High Life alongside Alan Cumming.
The sitcom, set among the cabin crew of a fictional airline, remains one of the actor’s best-known television projects. Melanie first captured the public’s attention during her appearance on the 2012 series of The X Factor.
Competing in the over-28s category, she became the second contestant to bow out of the final stages of the competition. Throughout her stint on the ITV talent programme, Melanie wowed both judges and audiences alike with her commanding voice and heartfelt renditions.
Following her X Factor journey, Melanie has carved out a successful career as an in-demand session vocalist. Her impressive portfolio includes collaborations with renowned acts such as Stereophonics, Kasabian and Fatboy Slim, while simultaneously forging a thriving path in musical theatre with a string of prestigious West End appearances to her name.
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