Zoe Ball spent two years ‘in shock’ after death of boyfriend Billy Yates
‘It’s like you can’t see beyond putting your feet on the floor and getting out of bed each day,’ says broadcaster
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Zoe Ball has opened up about suffering from shock for two years after the sudden death of her boyfriend, Billy Yates, who took his own life in 2017.
Speaking to Red, the Strictly Takes Two presenter and Radio 2 host revealed she struggled to get out of bed at the time.
“I believe I was in shock for two years afterwards,” she said.
“It’s like you can’t see beyond putting your feet on the floor and getting out of bed each day.”
Ball went on to stress how important it is to remember that help is available for those battling mental health issues.
“’Since losing Billy, I’ve met lots of people who’ve helped me have a better understanding of the complexities of mental health,” Ball added.
The 49-year-old broadcaster went on to talk about feeling more confident in her own skin now compared to when she was younger.
“I wish I’d known [when I was younger] that you don’t have to be what people are expecting you to be,” she told the publication.
“You just have to be you. When you grow up as a woman, there is that confusion where you think, “I need to be this or that to fit in.” Now, I’m very much like, “No, this is what I am.”’
Ball’s comments come after she posted a tribute to Yates in November last year on what would have been his 43rd birthday.
The photographed showed Yates lighting a paper lantern.
“Beautiful full moon for your birthday eve Billface,” Ball wrote in the caption.
“Your star still shines the brightest up there,’ she said. ‘Fly forever free. Always in this old ♥ of mine.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments