Harry Derbidge Opens Up About the Heartbreak of Betrayal and New Beginnings with a Long-Distance Love
Harry Derbidge, a star of The Only Way Is Essex (TOWIE), has candidly shared his journey of recovery after facing betrayal in a shocking love triangle involving his ex, Joe Blackman, and best friend Junaid Ahmed. The devastating events of the previous season shook Harry to the core, but as the 90-minute Christmas special filming begins, Harry reveals how he’s been healing and moving forward, both emotionally and personally, reported by OK! Magazine.
“I am in such a better place,” Harry, 30, shared. “In Cyprus, when it all happened, I don’t even remember it… I was there but not there. I am so thankful I have come out the other side. Time is a healer. I will always be scarred by the situation and that scar will stay with me into my new relationships. But I am pleased two people have shown me who they really are.”
The public support Harry received after the emotional TOWIE scenes went viral was overwhelming. “I went through my phone after an episode and I had thousands of DMs. It was the most my Instagram has ever blown up. It was overwhelming but so amazing at the same time. So many people related to what I was going through,” Harry said. “I didn’t think people lived like that. But honestly, people are messaging, going, ‘My husband left me for my best friend…’ there were so many. The love and support I had really helped”, according to the Mirror.
Though still navigating life post-betrayal, Harry has focused on self-improvement, including spending time at the gym to build confidence. “I was so comfy in a relationship, I kind of let myself go. So now, it’s all about being the best version of me.”
Harry’s life has not only changed professionally but personally as well. He revealed he is seeing someone new, though the relationship is still in its early stages. “I am seeing someone. It is early days. We haven’t even met! He lives in Australia. I’m going for two weeks – to go on a first date. I’m dreading the flight, but it’s a new chapter,” Harry shared.
As he continues to mend his heart, Harry remains close with his TOWIE friends, including Freddie and Arg. “Me and the girls are still Girlband 2.0,” Harry added, referring to his bond with his fellow cast members. “I’ve been getting on really well with Freddie. We really bonded. It was just natural.”
Harry’s Christmas plans include spending time with his family, enjoying a meal with loved ones and some festive fun with his cousin, Amy Childs.