Actor Lisa Faulkner has opened up about her struggles with health issues, describing it as a “very dark time.” The EastEnders and Holby City star revealed that undergoing three rounds of IVF and experiencing a failed ectopic pregnancy took a toll on her mental and emotional well-being. Faulkner, who is 52 years old, expressed how the desire for a baby became overwhelming overnight, leading to feelings of loneliness and disappointment when she was unable to conceive. She shared her journey in a candid interview with Good Housekeeping, where she discussed the challenges she faced during that period.
Reflecting on her experience, Faulkner discussed the isolation she felt when her peers were successfully getting pregnant while she was not. Despite undergoing IVF with a reputable doctor, she found herself among the minority who did not achieve pregnancy through the treatment. The actress eventually turned to adoption and welcomed her daughter, Billie Coghill, into her life at 17 months old. Faulkner emphasised that the process of adoption presented unique challenges and required ongoing self-work to support her daughter effectively.
In addition to her personal struggles, Faulkner also touched upon the impact of grief, having lost her mother at a young age. She highlighted the enduring nature of grief and how it can resurface unexpectedly even years after a loss. Faulkner’s personal experiences have shaped her approach to relationships, including her cautious approach to starting a new relationship with her husband, TV chef John Torode, particularly due to her daughter’s presence and her previous marital challenges.
Currently, Faulkner co-hosts John And Lisa’s Weekend Kitchen with her husband on ITV and is set to release a cookbook with him. Beyond her acting career, Faulkner has successfully transitioned into a TV chef, winning Celebrity MasterChef in 2010. Her story of resilience and growth serves as an inspiration to those facing similar challenges. Faulkner’s full interview can be found in the October 2024 issue of Good Housekeeping.