Hannah Waddingham, the 51-year-old star of Ted Lasso, turned heads on Wednesday evening as she made her red carpet debut alongside new boyfriend Nick Beresford-Cleary at the Variety Power of Women event in London. The actress, renowned for her commanding presence on screen and her signature hourglass figure, stunned in a plunging halterneck gown with a daring thigh-high split, embracing the glamour and sophistication of the occasion.
Fans and media alike were quick to notice the chemistry between Hannah and Nick, a consultant spine surgeon. The couple posed together for photographs, with Hannah looking radiant and clearly smitten, weeks after confirming she was in a relationship following years of focusing on her career and raising her daughter Kitty, now 11.
A New Chapter After Eight Years
In a candid cover story with Women’s Health UK last month, Hannah opened up about stepping back into romance after nearly a decade of prioritising herself and her daughter. “It’s taken me eight years,” she admitted, laughing, “I didn’t really have the space mentally or emotionally for that. I’ve hunkered down and focused on my girl and me. But now I’m ready to stick my head above the parapet a bit more.”
She added, with a mischievous grin: “If it’s a very good-looking parapet, then yes!” Her new relationship has clearly brought joy and balance back into her life, allowing her to embrace both her personal happiness and her professional commitments.
From Single Motherhood to Stardom
Hannah became a single mother when her previous relationship with Gianluca Cugnetto ended when their daughter Kitty was just two. The breakup left Hannah solely responsible for raising her child while managing the demands of an acting career. She has often reflected on the challenges of balancing parenthood with a thriving career, especially during moments when Kitty’s health necessitated immediate attention.
When Kitty was three, she was diagnosed with Henoch-Schönlein purpura, an autoimmune disorder, which required Hannah to step back from roles that might take her far from home. It was during this time that she manifested the role of Rebecca Welton in Ted Lasso, ensuring it could be filmed close to her London home, allowing her to stay present for Kitty. Two months after envisioning the role, she had her first meeting for the part—a serendipitous opportunity that would become career-defining.
Reflecting on single motherhood, Hannah said, “I found a strength in myself. I thought, ‘No, I’m not going to sit in the corner with a duvet over my head thinking, oh, poor me.’ I’m going to come out fighting because I know I have so much to give in my career. My daughter is undoubtedly my greatest achievement because of that.”
The New Romance: Nick Beresford-Cleary
Nick Beresford-Cleary, Hannah’s new partner, is a Consultant Spine Surgeon at Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and King Edward VII Hospital. He specializes in both elective and emergency spinal surgeries, and his path to medicine began in mechanical engineering before he pursued a medical degree at Edinburgh University.
Hannah first sparked rumours of their romance in March when the couple was spotted together at the Cheltenham Festival. Since then, she has described Nick as “very good looking” and “really lovely,” sharing little else publicly to maintain the privacy of their blossoming relationship.
The red carpet event marked a new public chapter for Hannah, who has long been protective of her personal life. Seeing her alongside Nick in photographs, fans were struck not only by her radiant appearance but also by the evident warmth and affection between the pair.
A Career of Strength and Resilience
Hannah’s career trajectory is one defined by resilience and determination. After a decade-long relationship with Gianluca Cugnetto and the responsibilities of raising Kitty, Hannah emerged as a force in television, theatre, and film. Her performance in Ted Lasso has earned her international acclaim, yet she remains grounded in her role as a mother.
She has previously spoken about the difficulties faced by single parents in high-pressure careers, noting that many underestimate the commitment required when one parent is absent. “It’s not the same as having two parents. You’re the sole provider, the decision-maker, and the anchor for your child. That’s a responsibility that shapes everything,” she explained.
Dating in Her 50s: Clear Criteria
Hannah has also been open about her dating philosophy, emphasizing that she seeks positivity, charisma, and genuine connection over superficial traits. In a podcast interview with Michelle Visage, she revealed her strict criteria: “I want a guy that scoops me up and goes, ‘I’ve got you, I don’t care if you’ve got your make-up on or not, I’m happy to lie in bed with you and have Marmite on toast and a glass of milk.’”
She elaborated: “I’m 50. If you’re not going to step up, step off until someone fabulous comes along. There’s no room for negativity or lack of effort.” This philosophy has guided her selection of a partner who complements both her life and her role as a devoted mother.
Style and Confidence on the Red Carpet
At the Variety Power of Women event, Hannah’s outfit choice underscored her confidence and self-assuredness. The plunging halterneck gown with a thigh-high slit highlighted her hourglass figure, while her hair and makeup exuded elegance. Fans and photographers alike were captivated by her poise and glamour, with many noting how effortlessly she balanced sophistication with bold style.
Posing alongside Nick, Hannah radiated joy, suggesting that her personal life is flourishing alongside her professional achievements. The couple’s chemistry was evident, with Hannah appearing completely at ease and affectionate in Nick’s presence, a striking image of a woman embracing love on her own terms.
Looking Ahead
For Hannah, this moment represents both personal fulfillment and a public affirmation of her happiness. After years of dedication to her daughter and career, she now steps into a new phase of life with a partner who supports her aspirations and shares her values. Fans have expressed delight at seeing Hannah happy, applauding her for finding love again while maintaining the balance of family and professional life.
Hannah Waddingham’s journey—from single mother navigating unexpected challenges to red carpet appearances with a new partner—is a testament to resilience, self-awareness, and the pursuit of personal happiness. With Nick Beresford-Cleary by her side, she continues to inspire those who follow her story, showing that strength, grace, and love can coexist beautifully, even in the public eye.
In Summary:
- Hannah Waddingham, 51, made her red carpet debut with spine surgeon Nick Beresford-Cleary at the Variety Power of Women event.
- The Ted Lasso star stunned in a plunging halterneck gown with a daring thigh-high slit, showcasing her confidence and elegance.
- Hannah has been a single mother to daughter Kitty, 11, since her split with Gianluca Cugnetto.
- She revealed in interviews that it took eight years to feel ready for a new relationship and prioritizes positivity and charisma in a partner.
- Nick is a consultant spine surgeon who studied mechanical engineering before pursuing medicine.
- Hannah’s career and personal choices reflect resilience, balancing her professional ambitions with her role as a devoted mother.
- Fans praised Hannah’s style, confidence, and happiness as she publicly embraced this new chapter of her life.
