Alex Scott to Co-Host Soccer Aid Alongside Dermot O’Leary: Uncovering the Ex-Arsenal Player-Turned-BBC Star
Former Arsenal Women’s footballer-turned-TV presenter Alex Scott is set to co-host Soccer Aid with Dermot O’Leary on ITV1 this Sunday evening. As her profile continues to rise, Wales Online takes a closer look at Scott’s life, from her football career to her transition into television and her personal life.
Scott, 40, has become a familiar face on British television, presenting various programmes including Final Score, Match of the Day, Football Focus, and The One Show. Her journey from the football pitch to the media spotlight has been smooth, but not without its challenges. According to an article in Wales Online, Scott made her mark playing for Arsenal, Birmingham City, and Boston Breakers in the NWSL, as well as earning 140 caps for England.
A Disappointing Setback in Her Media Career
Last year, Scott was reportedly a leading contender to replace Gary Lineker as the host of Match of the Day. However, the job ultimately went to a seasoned trio of Mark Chapman, Gabby Logan, and Kelly Cates. A source close to Scott revealed that she was “hurt” following a drop in ratings for Football Focus, which she presents, coupled with a perceived lack of support from BBC executives.
As reported by Wales Online, there were also rumours that Scott planned to move to the USA with her partner, Jess Glynne, to explore further opportunities in her field. However, it appears that Scott is staying put in Britain for now, ready to take centre stage on ITV1’s Soccer Aid event.
Jess Glynne Relationship and Love-Life
Since the summer of 2023, Scott and ‘Rather Be’ singer Glynne have been romantically an item. Initially keeping their relationship under wraps, Scott eventually confirmed their status as a couple through social media posts. According to Wales Online, Scott has expressed her desire to start a family with Glynne.
Scott credits Glynne with helping her overcome her fear of forming close relationships – a fear she attributes to her childhood experiences with her father, Tony. In an interview with The Times, Scott revealed, “We weren’t allowed to express emotion… Dad didn’t allow us to hug each other or say, ‘I love you.’ It had a huge impact on us all.”
Scott has previously been open about her past romance with fellow England and Arsenal footballer Kelly Smith, with whom she shared an eight-year relationship before parting ways in 2013.
Acid Attack Warning and Death Threats
Scott has been forthright about the darker side of celebrity life. She recounted her experience with serious threats, including one involving an acid attack. In an interview with The Times, Scott revealed, “There are negatives to fame. I’ve had plenty of racism, abuse and even death threats… People were saying, ‘She’s only on TV because she’s black, female and younger. She’s just ticking boxes.’ I was scared to go out of the house because these trolls were saying they were going to throw acid in my face.”
A Harrowing Incident in Russia
However, a harrowing incident occurred while Scott was covering the World Cup in Moscow for the BBC in 2018. In her memoir, she recounts being kidnapped by an Uber driver, turning what should have been a routine 15-minute journey into a terrifying ordeal. Wales Online reported that after the driver chillingly threatened, “Girls like you, I kill”, Scott’s quick thinking led her to claim a friendship with Vladimir Putin, having met the Russian president earlier on her trip.
As reported by Wales Online, Scott warned the driver: “If I don’t see Putin tomorrow, he will find you,” – a statement that seemingly saved her, as the driver subsequently dropped her off at her destination.
In conclusion, Alex Scott’s life has been a testament to her resilience and determination. From her football career to her transition into television, Scott has faced various challenges but continues to shine as a talented presenter. As she takes centre stage on Soccer Aid this Sunday, fans will be watching with great interest.
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