Patsy Kensit: ‘The Media Hurt Me’ – Star Finds Peace After Fifth Split

Actress Patsy Kensit has opened up about the 'awful' media treatment that caused her more trauma than her four failed marriages, during a spiritual journey on BBC's Pilgrimage.

Patsy Kensit Pilgrimage Interview: Media Trauma and Being Single
Last UpdateApr 3, 2026, 12:00:19 AM
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‘I’ve Been Hurt’: Patsy Kensit Opens Up About Media Scars and Finding Peace Beyond the Altar

Actress and 80s icon Patsy Kensit has made a poignant return to the spotlight, revealing the deep-seated emotional trauma she confronted while filming the latest series of BBC’s Pilgrimage. The star, who has faced intense public scrutiny for decades, admitted that the physical trek across the rugged landscape forced her to finally address the pain of the past.

Patsy Kensit on the set of Pilgrimage
Patsy Kensit found the experience of filming the BBC series deeply emotional.

The Full Story

For many of us who grew up watching Patsy Kensit, she was the quintessential it-girl, but behind the glossy magazine covers, a far more complex story was unfolding. While participating in the BBC’s spiritual trekking show, Patsy found herself pouring her heart out as she navigated the path, admitting that she 'cried a lot' during the experience. This wasn't just about the blisters or the long miles; it was about the heavy baggage she’s been carrying for years.

Interestingly, Patsy has been quick to set the record straight regarding the source of her distress. Despite what the tabloids might have you believe, she insists her trauma doesn’t stem from her high-profile failed marriages or being a mother to sons from different relationships. Instead, she pointed a finger at the 'pretty awful' treatment she received from the media during the height of her fame. It’s a classic case of the tall poppy syndrome, where the star was built up only to be relentlessly picked apart.

Patsy Kensit and Liam Gallagher in 1999
The star says her trauma is rooted in media treatment rather than her past relationships.

The journey seems to have sparked a major shift in her perspective. Having been married four times—to musicians Dan Donovan, Jim Kerr, Liam Gallagher, and DJ Jeremy Healy—and recently splitting from her fifth fiancé, Patsy admitted she used to 'run towards love' as a form of escape. Now, at 58, she seems to have turned a corner, finding a sense of contentment in her own company that previously elided her.

Key Figures

  • Patsy Kensit: The British actress and singer whose career spans from Lethal Weapon 2 to EastEnders.
  • The Media: Described by Kensit as a source of significant trauma due to decades of intrusive and often harsh coverage.
  • Pilgrimage Castmates: A diverse group of celebrities who accompanied her on the spiritual journey, providing a sounding board for her revelations.

What This Means

Patsy’s candour highlights a growing trend among British celebrities reclaiming their narratives after years of tabloid dominance. For the British public, seeing a familiar face like Patsy’s be so vulnerable about the lasting impact of being in the public eye serves as a reminder of the human cost of our celebrity-obsessed culture. It’s a bit of a wake-up call regarding how we treat those in the limelight.

Patsy Kensit outdoors
Nature provided a backdrop for Kensit to process years of public scrutiny.

I used to run at love—but I’m happier on my own. The treatment I had over the years from the media was pretty awful.

Patsy Kensit, Actress

What’s clear is that the 'outdoors' became a sanctuary for her. By stepping away from the city and the cameras—ironically while filming for them—she found the space to process feelings that had been shelved for decades. It suggests that for many in the UK, the path to mental well-being might just involve a bit of fresh air and a lot of honest reflection.

What to Expect

Viewers can see the full extent of Patsy’s emotional journey when the new series of Pilgrimage airs on BBC Two. Following her recent split from tycoon Patric Cassidy, fans can expect to see a more independent, self-assured version of the star in her future projects. She’s currently focusing on her health and her work, proving that there is indeed life—and a very happy one—after the fifth 'I do' didn't happen.

FAQ

Why is Patsy Kensit in the news?
She is discussing her emotional journey and past traumas while promoting her appearance on the BBC series Pilgrimage.

What caused Patsy Kensit's trauma?
Kensit clarifies that her trauma comes from 'awful' media treatment over the years, rather than her well-documented past marriages.

Is Patsy Kensit still getting married?
No, she recently confirmed she has split from her fifth fiancé and is currently single and 'happier on her own'.

What is the BBC show Pilgrimage about?
It is a reality series where celebrities of various faiths (and none) embark on a spiritual trek to learn about themselves and others.

Who were Patsy Kensit's famous husbands?
Her past husbands include Big Audio Dynamite’s Dan Donovan, Simple Minds’ Jim Kerr, and Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher.

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Aya Nageeb

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