More than two years after their divorce made headlines, it appears that there is no love lost between actors Patrick and Ireti Doyle.
News of the end of their union first broke in January 2023 when Ireti, in an interview with Chude Jideonwo, emphatically stated that they are officially divorced.
The actress stated that a significant disparity existed between the image she and her then-husband presented and their actual reality.
“That I’m an actor and plying my trade in the public arena does not make you entitled to my personal life. And quite frankly, I don’t owe anybody any explanation. So go ahead; speculate all you want. If it helps you digest your morning tea, I’m happy to oblige.
“My life is not an animation. I’m sorry if I contributed to shattering your image of love and the perfect couple. Still, my life is not an animation, and I cannot sacrifice my life on the altar of imagination or fantasy,” she said.
No love lost
In an interview on one of the latest episodes of Wake Up Nigeria, which airs on Television Continental, TVC, the veteran actor hinted that there may be some form of animosity between them. However, he was subtle in his approach.
Reacting to a question of his ex-wife about how she was faring in the industry, Doyle said that he would rather not say anything than say something unsavoury.
“I would like to disappoint you. If I don’t have something nice to say about a human being, I’d rather not speak. My anointing does not allow me to speak ill of anybody living or dead,” he said.
Although he said he was happy for her, seeing how far she had come with the Doyle name, the veteran broadcaster said he had since moved on.
“I’m happy for her that the Doyle name has opened doors for her, and so far she has not disgraced the Doyle name. She’s done pretty well. I’m proud of her achievements in the industry. I would like for it to continue that way,” he said.
Remarriage
In March 2023, Mr Doyle hinted that he had found love again as he celebrated Ms Funmilyo, whom he described as his new mother, friend and partner.
READ ALSO: I haven’t received child support from Davido – Sophia Momodu alleges
He wrote, “On Mother’s Day, we are expected to pay tribute to our mothers and all women who have played maternal roles. In my case, the four women who had acted in that capacity towards me are my late mother, Angela Bassey Doyle; my late elder sister, Victoria Doyle; Ayodeji Alakija; and my late wife, Rosamond Doyle.
“Today, to the glory of God, this young lady has taken over that role and truth be told, I have never been happier in all my life. Please join me in thanking God for my new mother, friend and partner for life, Oluwafunmilayo.”
Later that year, the ace actor announced that he was set to remarry following his divorce from his wife of 18 years.
In a heartfelt series of social media posts, Doyle revealed that he has found love with Funmilayo.
Expressing his gratitude for this divine gift, the ace broadcaster and actor said he was blessed to be engaged to Funmilayo.
Doyle said he looked forward to a future with Funmilayo, with whom he shares a 33-year age gap, describing their love as a testament to resilience.
