"I never wanted to be a kid-I was different

Made In Chelsea star Mark-Francis Vandelli on growing up quickly and misconceptions

- ZARA ZUBEIDI

Mark-Francis Vandelli is one of the rare reality TV personalities who has managed to keep his private life just that.

So when he agreed to sign up to Celebs Go Dating earlier this year, fans were delighted to discover more about the 34-year-old star as he bravely discussed his past relationship and unusual childhood.

The experts encouraged Mark to embrace “radical honesty” – something he tells us was a “ghastly concept” as he asks his housekeeper Susanna, in Italian, to fetch him the mug he was gifted during filming, which bears the same phrase.

Ironically, it’s Mark’s honesty that we’ve grown to love since he found fame on Made In Chelsea a decade ago. And it’s becoming clear that starring on Celebs Go Dating has encouraged him to open up like never before.

Here, Mark tells us about “growing up too soon”, why he doesn’t care what people think of him and what he’s looking for in a partner…

Hi Mark! How was Celebs Go Dating?

It was great and I’m so glad I did it. Sometimes it’s the things you’re most sceptical about that end up being the most rewarding. I wanted to push myself now I’m in my thirties, and I wanted to see if I could show a little bit more of my personality. It was really fulfilling.

What did you take away from the experience? 

Not to judge people before you’re able to get to know and understand them. 

You spoke about feeling pushed to one side on the show. Where does that stem from?