Richard Keys insists he didn’t leave ex-wife ‘dying or suffering with cancer’ as record set straight

Richard Keys has spoken to challenge longstanding claims surrounding his separation from ex-wife Julia, insisting he did not abandon her during a cancer battle. The former Sky Sports presenter stated that Julia's thyroid cancer occurred years before their split, not at the time of their 2016 separation as widely reported. "I didn't leave Julia dying of cancer, or suffering with cancer," Keys told the Telegraph. "Sadly, she had cancer in 2008 and '09, and we ran into a genius surgeon who removed it." TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say He recalled spending 30 consecutive days seeking out top specialists and hospitals during her treatment, adding that he was working at Arsenal on the day of her operation to avoid drawing unwanted attention to her condition. Keys also addressed perceptions about his relationship with Lucie Rose, who is 31 years younger than him and whom he married in 2023. The broadcaster dismissed suggestions that he had somehow coerced his daughter's friend into the relationship. "What's damaging is that people presume I ran away with my daughter's best mate, locked her in a room, and gave her no choice about whether she wanted to be with me or not. All of which is nonsense," he said. He described his wife as a formidable individual with strong convictions. He added: "Lucie's one of the most powerful, strong-minded individuals you'll come across. She's deeply passionate about women's rights. People see me as an easy target, but the narrative is not fair on her. It's totally wrong." LATEST SPORTS NEWS: British F1 star gives health update after terrifying 191mph crash at Japanese Grand Prix EFL clash delayed as drone flies above stadium forcing players to leave pitch and referee to halt match Fans outraged over 'unwatchable' World Cup warm-up between USA and Belgium as both teams...