Actress Claire Sweeney has shared a heartfelt message following the death of her former partner Ricky Hatton, describing how she required time to come to terms with the tragic news.
Ms Sweeney and Mr Hatton had maintained a friendship spanning approximately 25 years before their romantic involvement began during the 2024 series of Dancing on Ice.
The pair reconnected whilst competing on the ITV skating programme, having previously participated together in Let’s Dance for Comic Relief in 2013.
Their relationship became public after they were photographed enjoying pub outings in Stockport and made their red carpet debut at Manchester’s Co-op Live Arena opening in May 2024.
The couple holidayed in Tenerife and Mallorca during their eight-month romance.
However, their relationship ended in December 2024, with Ms Sweeney telling MailOnline: “We’re still friends. We were friends, we dated and now we’re friends again. It’s all good!”
On Tuesday, 48 hours after Mr Hatton’s death, Coronation Street star Ms Sweeney posted on Instagram: “I’ve needed a few days to process the devastating news about my dear friend Ricky.”
She expressed sympathy for his family, particularly his children Campbell, Millie, Fearne and Lyla, along with his granddaughter.
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“Ricky, you were the people’s champ. We adored and cherished you. Love you always,” Ms Sweeney wrote.
The 54-year-old actress accompanied her message with a video montage featuring photographs and clips from their time together, set to Elvis Presley’s If I Can Dream.
Ms Sweeney’s Coronation Street colleagues rallied around her with messages of support on social media.
Elle Mulvaney, who portrays Amy Barlow, responded with heart emojis, whilst Samia Longchambon wrote: “So so sorry Claire. All my love.”
Lucy Fallon commented: “So sorry claire x” with a heartbroken emoji.
Catherine Tyldesley offered her condolences, writing: “I’m so deeply sorry my love. A true legend gone too soon. God bless and love to him and his family/friends. Love you xxx.” (sic)
Former world boxing champion Mr Hatton was discovered deceased at his Hyde residence in Greater Manchester on Sunday morning, with officers called to Bowlacre Road at 6:45am.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed they found the body of a 46-year-old man and stated the death was not being treated as suspicious.
Mr Hatton had been open about his mental health struggles following his retirement from professional boxing.
The Manchester-born athlete had announced in July his intention to return to the ring for a professional bout scheduled for Dubai in December, marking what would have been his comeback after years away from the sport.
